Security forces bust fraud and illegal internet networks in Iraq

Shafaq News- Baghdad

Iraq’s Federal Intelligence and Investigations Agency (FIIA) foiled an alleged financial fraud scheme involving illegal dollar sales and digital wallet theft that targeted thousands of Iraqis, a security source told Shafaq News on Monday.

The agency arrested Murtadha Abbas Mohsen Al-Namash and several other members of the network after tracking their online activity. According to the source, the group posed as companies selling US dollars to citizens and travelers through social media, using deception and extortion to obtain money and other financial assets.

Authorities also shut down digital channels and platforms used in the alleged scheme. The source said the channels involved around 5,000 subscribers on OKX, 1,800 on Binance, 1,400 on Bybit, and 10 on MEXC.

Earlier this month, Iraq’s Federal Police seized more than $2 million in counterfeit US currency and arrested two suspects in separate operations in Baghdad.

Meanwhile, Communications Minister Mustafa Sanad said the Iraqi National Security Service (INSS) dismantled one of Iraq’s largest networks for illegally obtaining and reselling bundled and satellite internet services. INSS seized equipment and arrested the head of the Baghdad-based network. “Other networks have also been identified and will be dismantled, with their members arrested.”

According to Sanad, unauthorized bundled and satellite internet services cost the state more than 100 billion dinars (about $763.06M) annually.