The Guardia Civil has arrested a 32-year-old man in Dolores as the putative perpetrator of three fraud offences committed using the smishing technique. These offences have impacted victims in various provinces, resulting in financial losses exceeding 2,000 euros. This arrest is part of the Nodo_26 investigation.
The Investigation Unit of the Guardamar del Segura Main Station initiated the investigation in September of last year following the receipt of a complaint that initially appeared to be an isolated incident. In a scheme known as smishing, the victim, a resident of Oliva de la Frontera (Badajoz), provided her bank details after receiving a fraudulent message that impersonated a well-known bank.
The author generated a virtual bank card and subsequently utilised it to withdraw 1,200 euros in currency from an ATM in Guardamar del Segura, utilising the information he had acquired.
Mode of operation
Following these incidents, officers initiated a comprehensive investigation that encompassed the examination of security camera footage and electronic traces. The perpetrator was completely identified as a result of these endeavours, which were facilitated by the Dolores Police Station. Additionally, the same individual was associated with at least two additional frauds that were perpetrated using the same technique, with the victims residing in San Javier (Murcia) and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Retention
Ultimately, the alleged perpetrator was apprehended in a neighbourhood of Dolores on March 23rd, following a discreet monitoring operation. He was apprehended immediately upon the confirmation of his identity and involvement in the events under investigation.
Consequently, the Civil Section of the Court of First Instance of Orihuela was granted custody of him, and it subsequently ordered his release subject to charges that are still pending prosecution.
The agents are currently conducting their investigation and are not ruling out the possibility of additional victims being identified in connection with these incidents.
The Guardia Civil emphasises the significance of refraining from disclosing personal or banking information through unverified communications and advises individuals to implement stringent security measures to prevent potential digital fraud.
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