Google has taken legal action against scammers behind fake cryptocurrency apps. The tech giant has filed a lawsuit against three scammers who allegedly created dozens of fraudulent apps to steal cryptocurrency.
Google has been accused of defrauding more than 100,000 people around the world by distributing fake cryptocurrency apps through its Google Play store, CNBC reported.
The lawsuit was filed on April 4 in the Southern District of New York. The move represents Google’s efforts to combat cryptocurrency scams and aims to set a legal precedent for user protections.
Civil claims litigation
The defendants identified in the civil claim lawsuit as Yunfeng Sun (alias Alphonse Sun) and Hongnam Cheung (alias Zhang Hongnim or Stanford Fischer) are accused of orchestrating a fraudulent operation by publishing at least 87 fake investment and cryptocurrency trading apps on Google Play.
Google's complaint alleges that the individuals provided false information about their identities, locations and the nature of their applications.
Google’s general counsel, Halimah DeLaine Prado, stressed the importance of the lawsuit in addressing cryptocurrency fraud, which has resulted in significant losses in the U.S. She emphasized the company’s commitment to using its resources to protect users and curb fraudulent activity.
The legal action seeks civil claims under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act and claims for breach of contract. The lawsuit details the methods the defendants used to attract users to their apps, including text message marketing campaigns, online videos, and affiliate marketing tactics.
Scam apps
Although the apps appear legitimate, including showing investment balances and returns, users are reportedly unable to withdraw their funds. Some have even been misled into paying additional fees to access their gains.
The complaint also describes how the alleged scammers attempted to legitimize their apps, such as TionRT, by facilitating small initial withdrawals and issuing press releases. However, when users sought to recoup larger investments, they received no response.
Google has responded to the deceptions by stepping up its cybersecurity measures, including partnerships with law enforcement and a team dedicated to identifying scams.
The company claims that it has incurred more than $75,000 in damages due to the costs of the investigation and security enhancements. Through this lawsuit, Google seeks damages and a permanent injunction prohibiting the defendants and their affiliates from accessing Google services or creating accounts.
The lawsuit is part of Google's broader strategy to protect users and ensure the integrity of its platform in response to growing online scams and cybersecurity threats. #加密货币诈骗 #谷歌起诉
