The illegal network of more than 13,000 fake online stores, discovered by Italian cybersecurity company Yarix.
Italian officials this week began seizing what may be one of the world’s largest networks of online fake stores, defrauding potential customers by offering discounted goods from retailers. Luxury brands like Giorgio Armani SpA and Prada SpA that never came to fruition.
Illegal network of more than 13,000 fake online stores, discovered by Italians network security the company Yarix, allegedly managed by a Chinese cybercriminal group, as suggested by the infrastructure code as well as the gateway of the payment system, according to people familiar with the matter, Who asked not to be named discuss confidential information.
A spokesperson for Yarix confirmed the company is actively supporting a large-scale investigation to crack down on fake electronics stores. The investigation may then involve law enforcement agencies of other European countries and the United States, the spokesman added.
Officials at Italian law enforcement Polizia Postale on Wednesday began taking down a number of digital fake stores associated with Italian brands, the people said.
These websites are designed to mimic genuine company websites and customers are often attracted because of the discounted prices. But no deliveries were made, and the websites often included a real credit card payment platform used to steal buyers’ financial data, the people said.
A representative for Italy’s Polizia Postale confirmed the operation and declined to comment on details.
Mirko Gatto, CEO of Yarix, said: “What we are revealing is a coordinated, infrastructure network of well-designed fake stores around the world that over the past two years have had probably stole tens of millions of euros and dollars from gullible customers.” in a phone interview.
Italian fashion brands targeted by the criminal network include Brunello Cucinelli, Dolce & Gabbana, Ermenegildo Zegna and Moncler. They said cybercriminals also target international sports brands such as Nike, Adidas and New Balance.
Most of the servers and digital platforms of the fake stores searched for in the current investigation are located in Panama, Turkey and the United States, the people said.
