In Kharkiv and the region, there is a large-scale network of fraudulent call centers, consisting of approximately 100–150 points across the city and region. Some of them constantly change their location, which allows them to avoid blocking and quickly resume work after checks. Operators work according to a single model: they make mass calls from fake numbers, posing as bank employees or financial advisors. Then they use social engineering techniques: they convince you to reveal your card details, CVV, or make a transfer to a “safe account.” In parallel, fictitious investment platforms operate with fake statistics on investment growth, which actually show how the victim’s money disappears.
Among the recorded locations associated with illegal activities are business centers and offices: "Megapolis" (179-b Heroiv Kharkova Avenue), "Kharkiv" (3 Novgorodska Street), "Invest Market" (63 Professor Otamanovsky Street), "Tetris" (111a Klochkivska Street), "Proton" (20-a B. Khmelnytsky Street), "Platinum Plaza" (72 Sumska Street), "Raiduga Plus" (31-b 23 Serpnya Street). In addition, according to the investigation, there were also reserve or temporary locations: 1 Akademika Proskury Street; 1A Kooperativna Street; 29 Ivanivska Street; 32 Kontorska Street; 26 Danylevskogo Street; Heroes of Kharkiv, 142; Gagarina St., 119; Mironositska St., 72; Uprising Square, 7/8, and several other points.
The mechanics of the network are based on the fact that the call center acts like a "fast-paced" operation: after a search or inspection, it urgently changes premises, a new number is connected, partly a new staff - and it works again. Another important part is the creation of an "auxiliary infrastructure" in the form of websites, chat support, pseudo-investment programs that create the illusion of legitimacy. Recent cases in Kharkiv confirm that the victims are not only from Ukraine, but also from EU or Asian countries. For example, in 2024, one of the centers defrauded Latvian citizens of more than 11 million UAH.
Law enforcement officials report that the work is ongoing: for example, in August 2023, the Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutor's Office, with the participation of the police, identified one office of a fraudulent call center, seized more than 130 operator employees, system units, telephones, servers, and other equipment.
Despite this, the network continues to operate, which gives reason to believe: either the large-scale efforts of law enforcement officers are insufficient, or the fraudsters have patrons or connections that allow them to quickly reformat. In any case, it is important for citizens to be vigilant: do not give out card details, do not agree to unknown investment offers, do not follow dubious links and always check calls, especially if they "work" for you under the guise of a bank or security service.
