Ukrainian scam call centres are reportedly moving part of their operations to Cyprus and Bulgaria as Ukrainian authorities intensify efforts against networks accused of defrauding victims through phone calls and fake investment schemes.
According to an investigation by Ukrainian outlet Glavkom, representatives of two such call centres told journalists they were recruiting staff to work with “clients” from European Union countries. The positions reportedly included relocation opportunities to Cyprus, Bulgaria, Montenegro and Turkey.
The allegations concern activities reportedly linked to illegal fraud networks and have not been independently verified by SigmaLive.
Transport and accommodation offered
One call centre representative allegedly offered a prospective employee a weekly route through the mountains to leave Ukraine illegally, with the assistance of a guide and at a cost of $1,000.
After crossing the border, the network allegedly arranged transport for workers to Bulgaria or Cyprus. The source reportedly claimed that several groups had already used the route.
For overseas positions, the Ukrainian scam call centres allegedly covered travel expenses to Cyprus or Bulgaria and, in some cases, accommodation for the first month.
A second network that journalists contacted reportedly claimed to have “branches” in Cyprus and Bulgaria. It allegedly offered flight tickets, transport, accommodation for the first two months and assistance with documents.
How the alleged scams operate
According to the investigation, workers are trained using prepared communication scripts and contact potential victims while posing as representatives of various services.
The schemes reportedly include fake investment opportunities, banking services and offers to help victims recover money.
Victims may be persuaded to transfer funds through fraudulent banking applications or cryptocurrency wallets. The money is then reportedly converted into cryptocurrency.
More than 1,050 searches carried out
The reported relocation of activities abroad comes as Ukrainian authorities conduct a major crackdown on illegal call centres.
According to figures cited by Glavkom, more than 1,050 searches were carried out over a 12-month period. Around 340 illegal call centres were reportedly shut down, while more than 5,000 operator positions were eliminated.
The reports of activity linked to Cyprus and Bulgaria highlight the potential international dimension of the networks as Ukrainian authorities increase pressure on domestic operations.
Also read: Complaint ends Bangladesh’s UNFICYP Commander term in Cyprus
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
