Detectives from Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch have charged a man following investigations into a money laundering scam targeting computer users, Queensland Police say.
It will be alleged a 75-year-old local man fraudulently set up three Australian companies, JC Enterprising, JC Web Creations and ITZ Services between February 2015 and July 2017, after being contacted by a fake overseas computer repair company to become its local representative to receive funds from their customers.
As part of the scam, a number of victims were subject to overseas cold calling scams, advising their computer needed repairs and provided remote access to the scammers, who then downloaded ransomware virus.
It will be further alleged the scammers demanded money be paid to a Mackay-based bank account or money order to facilitate unlocking the victims’ computer.
Between 2010 and 2017, it will be alleged the 75-year-old transferred funds in excess of $1 million to a number of overseas entities.
In April, detectives executed search warrants on several post boxes in Mackay where it will be alleged twenty-two mail items were located addressed to the fraudulent companies.
Detective Inspector Nikki Colfs of Mackay Crime and Support Services said this scam was just another example of offenders praying on vulnerable victims.
"If anyone receives an unexpected call from someone and feels that something isn’t right, simply hang up," Detective Inspector Colfs said.
"Under no circumstances should people download software to their computer in this sort of scenario."
For more information on scams visit the Scamwatch website.
A 75-year-old man was arrested last Friday, July 7 and charged with recklessly engage in money laundering.
He is expected to appear in the Mackay Magistrates Court on August 3.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
