Authorities Detain Four for Operating Illegal Call Forwarding Devices
Law enforcement has apprehended four individuals suspected of managing illegal call forwarding equipment. These devices were instrumental in facilitating a widespread ‘no-show’ scam, which has resulted in financial losses estimated at approximately 140 million won. The scam targets restaurants and accommodations by generating mass bookings and reservations under false pretenses, ultimately defrauding businesses.
Sophisticated Scam Operation Uncovered
The ‘no-show’ scam involves perpetrators impersonating officials from public institutions, military units, or large corporations. They then place substantial orders or reservations with businesses such as restaurants and lodging establishments. Once the businesses are convinced, the scammers demand that expensive goods or food supplies be purchased on their behalf. Upon receiving payment, the scammers sever all contact, leaving the victims with significant financial losses.
Investigation Leads to Seizure of Extensive Equipment
The regional crime investigation unit of the Jeonbuk Provincial Police Agency announced on the 9th that four individuals, including a suspect identified as Mr. A, were arrested on charges of violating the Telecommunications Business Act. Investigations revealed that from March to May, Mr. A and his associates allegedly installed telecommunications equipment, including mobile phones and SIM cards, at four locations within the Jeonbuk region. These installations were reportedly used to manage the call forwarding devices employed by the ‘no-show’ scam organization to disguise their outgoing call numbers.
How the Scam Works
The call forwarding devices in question are designed to make internet-based phone numbers, such as those starting with ‘070’, or international calls appear as domestic mobile numbers beginning with ‘010’. This deception makes it difficult for recipients to identify fraudulent calls originating from overseas, as their phone displays a seemingly legitimate domestic number.
According to the police investigation, the call forwarding equipment managed by Mr. A and his group is linked to five ‘no-show’ scam incidents nationwide. The total financial damage incurred by victims is estimated to be around 140 million won.
Recruitment and Operation of the Scam
Evidence suggests that Mr. A and his associates were recruited by the criminal organization through social media platforms, where they were offered financial incentives to manage the illegal equipment. The organization reportedly enticed individuals by promising income from managing mobile phones and swapping SIM cards from their homes.
The police initiated their investigation after receiving intelligence about the operation of illegal call forwarding devices in areas with a high concentration of rented properties. A subsequent search and seizure operation at four such properties led to the confiscation of the telecommunications equipment, including 303 mobile phones, 8 routers, and 1,969 SIM cards.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are actively tracing the supply chain responsible for providing the telecommunications equipment and identifying the criminal organization that directed Mr. A and others to carry out the fraud. The investigation is set to continue, focusing on the individuals who executed the ‘no-show’ scams and those who provided the necessary resources, such as mobile phones and SIM cards.
