International Cybercrime Operation 'Platforma' Targets Fraud Network Across Four Countries

An international cybercrime operation codenamed “Platforma” has been successfully finalized, targeting a transnational criminal network suspected of online fraud. The operation involved coordinated actions in Germany, Albania, Cyprus, and Israel, with the support of Eurojust and Europol.

According to a statement from the Albanian State Police, the operation in Albania was conducted by the Directorate for the Investigation of Cybercrimes in collaboration with the Directorate of the Special Operational Force, under the direction of SPAK (Special Anti-Corruption Structure).

The criminal group is accused of defrauding more than 100 victims across different countries, causing an estimated financial loss exceeding 3 million euros. The group allegedly operated through a fake online investment platform designed to deceive victims into transferring large sums of money.

In Tirana, law enforcement officials executed search warrants issued by the Special Court of First Instance for Corruption and Organized Crime. Searches were carried out in three different locations, resulting in the seizure of significant evidence. This included two mobile phones, one laptop, a computer unit, a USB drive, an external hard disk, and 40,020 euros in cash.

The operation in Albania was conducted based on a letter of request from German authorities as part of a broader international investigation into the criminal network.

Authorities in all four countries involved continue to investigate the full extent of the fraud. The Albanian State Police reaffirmed their commitment to international cooperation in the fight against cybercrime and financial fraud.

Investigations are ongoing.