Dutch server identified in $110 million global scam network
A server in the Netherlands has been uncovered as a critical hub in an international scam operation that has defrauded tens of thousands of victims worldwide, according to an investigation by Dutch consumer affairs program Radar.
The scheme involves fake advertisements on platforms like Instagram, featuring prominent Dutch figures such as Eva Jinek, Herman den Blijker, and Jort Kelder falsely endorsing cryptocurrency investments. These advertisements redirect victims to fraudulent websites, where they are persuaded to share personal information and transfer money.
The scam has generated at least 110 million dollars in stolen funds worldwide, according to data from the criminal organization’s database. The Netherlands ranks among the top ten most affected countries, with 673 identified victims. Globally, the organization has collected personal data from over 500,000 potential targets.
Ethical hacker Wouter van Dongen’s investigation revealed that a Russian organization is behind the large-scale operation. Server logs show frequent logins from Russian IP addresses, and one of the key individuals involved is reportedly trained in electronic warfare. Operating from Georgia, this individual builds and maintains the systems that power fake advertisements, landing pages, and victim databases.
At the heart of the operation is a server located in Dronten, a town in the Dutch province of Flevoland. This server hosts the management systems, databases, and landing pages used to lure victims from fraudulent advertisements to fake cryptocurrency platforms. It also stores personal data of victims, such as names, email addresses, and IP addresses, enabling the coordination of the global scam.
The organization operates through a network of at least 25 shell companies registered in jurisdictions known for financial secrecy, including Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Cyprus, and Hong Kong. Some of these companies were previously linked to the Panama Papers.
The decision to base part of the infrastructure in the Netherlands is deliberate. The country’s high-quality internet infrastructure makes it an attractive hub for international hosting services.
The investigation into this scam will be further detailed in Radar on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 8:25 p.m. on NPO2. The program will include police reactions to the findings and efforts to uncover those responsible.
