Toronto police have announced significant progress in a major SIM swap fraud investigation, leading to the arrest of 10 individuals and the laying of 108 charges. The investigation, dubbed Project Disrupt, was spearheaded by the Toronto Police Service’s Financial Crimes Unit and the Coordinated Cyber Center (C3).
A SIM swap scam is a sophisticated type of account takeover fraud that exploits weaknesses in two-factor authentication and two-step verification processes. Typically, these verification methods rely on a text message or call sent to a mobile phone as the second factor of authentication. In a SIM swap scam, perpetrators gain control of the victim’s cell phone number by fraudulently transferring it to a new SIM card, often by impersonating the victim at a cell phone store or through other deceptive means. Once the fraudsters control the phone number, they can intercept any verification messages, allowing them to reset passwords and gain access to various accounts, including online banking and social media.
Project Disrupt began in June 2023 following reports from multiple telecommunications companies about SIM swap fraud incidents. The investigation revealed that the suspects had taken over the cell phone accounts of numerous victims, making unauthorized changes to these accounts and gaining access to various online services. The fraudsters often impersonated victims at cell phone stores, using convincing but fraudulent identification. In some cases, they also used phishing techniques, such as sending fake web links, to trick victims into revealing personal information.
During the investigation, the Toronto Police Service executed multiple search warrants and production orders, resulting in the seizure of over 400 pieces of fraudulent identification. The financial impact of the fraud is substantial, with losses exceeding $1 million affecting individual victims, telecommunications companies, and financial institutions. More than 1,500 cellular accounts across Canada were compromised as part of this scheme.
The 10 individuals arrested face a total of 108 charges, including fraud over $5,000, impersonation with intent, intercepting private communications, and possessing identity information for fraudulent purposes. The accused include Noah Ibgui, Syed Shan, Syed Hunain, Waseem Abbas, Ounali Hussain, Huzaifa Motala, Brandon D’Amico, Maria Aguja, Muhammad Ibrahim, and Owais Varachhia. However, two suspects remain at large: 26-year-old Hervine Umutijima and 47-year-old Nadia Campitelli, both of Toronto. Umutijima is wanted for multiple offenses, including mischief to computer data and various fraud charges. Campitelli is wanted for several fraud-related charges and is known to have multiple warrants across Ontario.
Authorities urge the public to be vigilant about their digital footprint and to take proactive steps to protect their personal information. This includes being cautious about sharing information online and recognizing the signs of phishing attempts. Enhanced security measures and public awareness are crucial in preventing such fraud in the future.
For further updates on the case and information on protecting yourself from SIM swap fraud, visit the Toronto Police Service’s official website or contact the Financial Crimes Unit directly.