Iraqi intelligence busts financial fraud network targeting salaries

Iraq’s Federal Intelligence and Investigations Agency at the Ministry of Interior has arrested members of a financial fraud network specializing in salary theft.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Interior, the agency dismantled an organized criminal group involved in financial fraud and stealing funds from citizens, retirees, and employees via electronic payment cards. The suspects allegedly posed as employees of a company to obtain confidential information, the Iraqi News Agency reported.

The ministry detained five individuals, whose roles included managing the group, securing data, and handling and transferring stolen funds. The Cybercrime Directorate continues to pursue other suspects, trace the network’s financial and electronic links, and complete the dismantling of its operations as a security precaution for the public.

The ministry urged Iraqis not to respond to any calls requesting electronic payment card details or PINs, emphasizing that legitimate companies do not request such information by phone as they already possess the necessary data in their official systems. Citizens were also encouraged to immediately report any fraud attempts or suspicious activity.