Authorities bust AI-assisted mass phishing scheme

Bulgaria’s anti-organised crime unit, GDBOP, and prosecutors have uncovered a large-scale phishing scheme targeting tens of thousands of people with fraudulent messages posing as state institutions, courier firms and government organisations. Authorities said the scheme involved the use of artificial intelligence.

The messages, which were mainly sent through chat applications, urged recipients to enter their bank card details and SMS verification codes. This information was then used to make purchases and withdrawals, officials from the Sofia District Prosecutor’s Office and GDBOP said at a media briefing reported by BTA.

Once the information was obtained, the scammers linked the cards to virtual wallets and used them to buy expensive electronics and gold, top up online casino accounts and purchase drugs.

Two individuals suspected of sending the messages via an Asian platform were arrested during the operation.

Investigators have so far identified dozens of victims, with losses ranging from several hundred to several thousand euros, according to BTA reporter Daniel Inkov.

The GDBOP has urged the public to exercise extreme caution when receiving messages containing payment links.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova