UK teenager arrested in global operation to crack Internet fraud

By Matt Whipp

Posted on 29 Oct 2004 at 15:58

A teenager from Camberley has been arrested by UK authorities in a global operation to crack a massive Internet fraud ring.

Members of the National Hi-Tech Crime Unit (NHTCU) arrested the 19-year-old on 27 October under the suspicion of involvement in a global Internet-based organised crime network dealing in identity theft, computer fraud, credit card fraud and conspiracy.

The effects of the fraud is thought to run into many millions in losses for the banks and other financial institutions targetted.

Thousands of members of the ring used the Shadowcrew, Carderplanet and Darkprofits websites, among others, to traffic counterfeit credit cards and false identification information as well as documents such as credit cards, driver's licenses, domestic and foreign passports and birth certificates.

The websites also included information and tools on how to get such information and documents.

Acting Detective Chief Superintendent, Mick Deats, Head of the UKs National Hi-Tech Crime Unit, said: 'Your identity is one of the most precious commodities. Criminals who try to steal the personal and financial information of ordinary citizens as well as the confidential and proprietary information of companies engaged in e-commerce, will be targeted by law enforcement.'

The investigation was initiated by US investigators going undercover on the Shadowcrew.com website and has led to the arrests of 28 people.