Omaha, Nebraska – The FBI has identified a money-mule fraud scheme both in Nebraska and across the country.
Special Agent Eugene Kowel defines a money mule as, “someone who wittingly or unwittingly transfers money on behalf of or under the direction of another individual.” The modus operandi involves criminals, primarily from overseas locations, recruiting teenagers and young adults via social media and online gaming platforms.
Todd DiCaprio, Supervisory Special Agent with the Omaha FBI’s Crimes against Children and Human Trafficking Squad, voiced concerns over the scheme: “We’re increasing the risk, especially for our young people, to unwittingly be exposed to child sexual abuse material during their conversations with these individuals.” These malefactors often masquerade as IT or gaming enterprises, engaging with youngsters online, discussing gaming upgrades, new avatars, and other attractive offers.
“The incentive to those individuals is, we will send X amount of money to you, you get to keep a percentage of that and then providing specific instructions most often via conversion to crypto currency,” DiCaprio elaborated. Upon obtaining the funds, these criminals disseminate child sexual abuse material to their clientele.
Kowel emphasizes the vulnerability of the youth involved, stating, “Many of the young people don’t really know what they’re doing. What they’re being approached with is an easy way to make money. And in the initial approach, they have no idea what this is for and they have no reason to think its illegal.”
In light of these revelations, the FBI strongly advises parents and guardians to educate their children about such deceptive practices. They should remain vigilant about digital transaction platforms, especially if their child has access to them, and reinforce the importance of online safety. Should there be any suspicion that a child has fallen prey to or been approached by this scheme, the FBI Omaha can be reached at 402-493-8688. The bureau further recommends that victims halt all fund transfers immediately.
