Major Operation Against Visa Scammers: $1.7 Billion Scam Uncovered

A simultaneous operation was conducted in 6 provinces against a network that used bot software to book consulate appointments and sold them to individuals at exorbitant prices. 49 suspects were charged with allegedly scamming over 41,000 people and laundering over $1.7 billion. The investigation, led by the Istanbul Public Prosecutor's Office, found that the suspects and their affiliated companies used bot software to access the online systems of foreign consulates and authorized agencies, booking appointments in bulk. The scammers then sold these appointments to citizens at inflated prices, promising 'visa guarantees' or 'fast appointments'. The scammers also transferred the personal data of applicants to automated software. The investigation revealed that the suspects laundered millions of dollars through cryptocurrency, precious metals, and cash transactions.