Polish Authorities Arrest SIM-Swap Gang in FBI-Backed Crypto Theft Crackdown

Polish cybercrime police, with support from the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations, apprehended four alleged members of a SIM-swapping ring targeting cryptocurrency exchanges. The group reportedly laundered tens of millions of Polish zlotys through bank accounts and digital wallets after hijacking telecom infrastructure to bypass security protocols.

Prosecutors secured pre-trial detention for all suspects, who face charges including participation in an organized criminal group, computer system hacking, and money laundering. Maximum penalties could reach 25 years imprisonment. Blockchain investigator ZachXBT linked one arrested individual to the online alias "Merry," known within cybercrime circles.

The operation highlights growing international coordination against crypto-related financial crimes. SIM-swapping attacks remain a critical vulnerability for exchange users, exploiting telecom security gaps to drain digital asset holdings. This takedown follows similar high-profile cases targeting crypto thieves across Europe and North America.