Illegal iGaming Network Shut Down in South Korea
An illegal online gambling network with an estimated turnover of $2.8 billion has been shut down in South Korea. This event followed a large-scale investigation, during which 13 individuals were arrested and 37 suspects detained. The operation involved international cooperation, including Interpol, which helped apprehend key figures, including the website operator who was arrested in the Philippines.
Use of Technology for Promotion
To attract customers, the criminals used modern technologies. One of the main promotional tools was deepfake videos, where they altered the voices and faces of celebrities to create the illusion that they were endorsing the online casino. These videos were widely distributed through YouTube streams, which helped attract thousands of users, including minors.
Structure of the Criminal Scheme
The criminals set up a complex network to conceal their activities, including international servers located in Thailand and the Philippines. They used sophisticated payment schemes to make it difficult to trace the illegal transactions. The criminal operation generated around $214 million in profit.
Financial Results
Law enforcement seized assets valued at around $7 million. This included:
- Cash
- Luxury goods
- Real estate
The participants in the scheme spent the money on expensive cars, watches, and elite properties. One of the main figures behind the operation was arrested, and his assets were confiscated.
Consequences for Users
Special attention was given to the users of the illegal platform. As a result of the investigation, 107 people, including several minors, were charged with involvement in gambling. These users now face serious legal consequences.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of combating illegal online casinos and gambling platforms that use new technologies to disguise their activities. It is crucial for the government and law enforcement to continue taking measures to prevent such crimes.