EU-Backed Operation Targets ‘Phone Phishing’ Gang in Belgium and Netherlands
Brussels, Belgium – December 9, 2024
The European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) has announced the results of a joint operation targeting a criminal gang involved in “phone phishing.” The operation, supported by Europol through its Data Analysis Centre, led to the arrest of 17 individuals in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Phone phishing, also known as “vishing,” is a form of online fraud where criminals impersonate legitimate organizations, such as banks or government agencies, to trick victims into providing sensitive personal information, including passwords and financial data.
According to Europol, the criminal gang targeted victims across Europe, using various phishing techniques to extort money and steal personal information. The gang’s operations were highly sophisticated, involving both automated phone and text messaging systems and human operators posing as customer service representatives.
The operation involved the collaboration of law enforcement agencies in Belgium and the Netherlands, supported by Europol’s Data Analysis Centre. The Centre’s analysts provided technical and analytical assistance, including data mining and cross-referencing, to identify and track the gang’s activities.
During the operation, law enforcement officers conducted raids at multiple locations in both countries, resulting in the arrest of 17 individuals. The suspects are facing charges of fraud, money laundering, and cybercrime.
Europol’s Deputy Director of Operations, Wil van Gemert, praised the collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the support provided by Europol.
“This successful operation demonstrates the importance of international cooperation in combating organized crime. By sharing information, expertise, and resources, we can effectively disrupt criminal networks and protect our citizens from these harmful scams,” said Mr. van Gemert.
Europol also provided training and technical assistance to law enforcement officers in the participating countries to enhance their capacity to investigate and combat phone phishing. The agency continues to monitor and support efforts to address this growing threat.
The operation is part of the EU’s ongoing efforts to tackle online fraud and cybercrime. In November 2024, the European Commission proposed new legislation aimed at strengthening the EU’s response to cyber threats and enhancing cooperation among member states.
Sources:
EU supports crackdown on ‘phone phishing’ gang in Belgium and The Netherlands
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