Cybercrime surges in Ourense: Victims lose tens of thousands of euros on 'likes'. A cyber fraud scheme offering payment for 'likes' is gaining ground in Ourense. Victims receive small payments at first, but are later asked to make deposits, resulting in significant financial losses.
A new surge in cyber fraud has been recorded in Ourense, linked to promises of easy money for social media 'likes'. According to police, victims receive job offers where they are paid small amounts—between three and five euros—for each 'like' they give. At first, the scheme appears genuine: money is actually transferred, most often via Bizum. However, after several successful transactions, the fraudsters begin demanding deposits or fees to withdraw funds, leading to significant financial losses. In some cases, damages have reached up to €70,000.
How the scheme works
According to information presented at the Ourensec conference organized by the Ourense Cybersecurity Association, about five reports per month are filed in the city related to this scheme. Victims are first given the illusion of earning money and then drawn into a chain of transfers, using various pretexts to collect funds. Notably, the fraudsters actively use personal data obtained during communication: copies of documents, bank account details, and even photos of IDs. This information is then used to open accounts that can be employed in other criminal schemes, including outside Spain.
Gathering information and new risks
Experts note that the collection of personal data has become a key element in most cybercrimes. In addition to the 'like' schemes, criminals also use other methods—such as posing as landlords. In such cases, they demand copies of documents, bank statements, and prepayments from potential tenants, allowing them not only to obtain money but also to use someone else’s data for further fraud. As explained by National Police Inspector José Manuel Araujo, such documents are often used to open accounts, which are then used in international money laundering schemes.
Investigation and challenges
The conference also addressed the difficulties in investigating such crimes. Civil Guard Sergeant Antonio Vázquez emphasized that digital evidence requires strict adherence to the chain of custody: it is crucial to document who and when discovered, seized, and processed the evidence. If this process is violated, the evidence may be declared invalid and the crime may go unpunished. Cybercrime prosecutor Miguel Ruiz pointed out the problem of anonymity on the internet: investigations become more complicated when criminals use anonymous profiles, and obtaining information requires contacting foreign companies and conducting additional checks.
Expert discussion
The Ourensec event featured not only representatives of law enforcement and the prosecutor's office, but also leading cybersecurity experts. Among them were Antonio Fernandez, one of Spain's most experienced hackers, and José Cascallana, who gave an in-depth analysis of the cybercrime economy. There was also a focus on issues of digital identity, discussed by Diego Sid, project director at Imatia Innovation, as well as the role of lawyers in combating cybercrime, presented by attorney Manuela Fernandez Cugil. Overall, experts note that the rise in digital fraud requires not only technical but also legal solutions.
Security and control of financial flows are becoming increasingly urgent issues for Spain's regions. As was the case with the cancellation of free travel on Rodalies after major disruptions, previously reported in the article on the resumption of paid travel on Rodalies, new fraud schemes have a direct impact on daily life and require greater attention from both residents and authorities.
