Tashkent cybercrime group caught after stealing nearly 1 billion UZS from bank cards via Telegram malware

Reportedly, the group members, who are citizens of various countries, used malicious software to steal money from people's bank cards by gaining access to their personal data.

The perpetrators operated through a dedicated Telegram group, where they sent APK files to users. These files contained viruses that infected the victims’ phones. As a result, the attackers gained access to sensitive information such as SMS codes, contacts, call histories, and banking details.

Through these illegal means, the group managed to embezzle nearly 1 billion UZS from the bank cards of 177 individuals via unauthorized transactions. All operations were monitored and coordinated through a call center.

Investigations are currently ongoing to identify other members of the criminal group and to fully uncover the extent of the crime. A criminal case has been initiated under relevant articles of the Criminal Code, and the suspects have been detained in accordance with procedural law.