Dutch Police Uncover Telegram Scammers Selling Personal Data
In a recent operation, Dutch law enforcement conducted a series of raids and arrested four individuals suspected of selling personal data through Telegram groups. During the raids, authorities seized data storage devices and firearms. The investigation is focused on stopping the illegal trade of data linked to fraud and identity theft.
Details of the Arrests
The suspects include a 26-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman from Leeuwarden, a 28-year-old man from Maarssen, and a 31-year-old man with no fixed address. According to police, the group sold personal information such as names, dates of birth, bank details, and addresses, which were obtained through hacks or data leaks from companies.
How the Data Was Used
Police warn that this type of data is often used to scam citizens. Criminals may impersonate bank employees or target vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly. During the raids, officers discovered three firearms. The investigation is ongoing, with a particular focus on identifying the sources of the data leaks. Authorities have stated that more arrests are possible as monitoring of Telegram groups continues.
Police Actions on Telegram
To strengthen their presence on Telegram, police are leaving messages in both public and private groups, warning about the consequences of illegal data trading. One message reads: “We may have already noticed your nickname — see you soon!”
Context: Telegram’s Privacy Policy Changes
This operation comes at a challenging time for Telegram, following the arrest of its founder Pavel Durov in France in August 2024. In September, Telegram, known for its focus on privacy, changed its privacy policy and began providing user IP addresses and phone numbers to authorities upon request.
User Reactions and Privacy Concerns
These changes have sparked debate among users. Some see the new policy as a step toward combating serious crimes like data leaks and child exploitation. However, journalists, human rights activists, and other users who value anonymity have started seeking more secure platforms, fearing for their privacy.