The group "Rip Deal Unit Vienna" was able to prove three fraud cases with a total damage of about one million euros against the man, together with Europol and investigators from Spain, Italy, Slovakia, and Switzerland. Rip deal or advance payment fraud is a form of fraud where criminals from the Western Balkans deceive potential victims by posing as wealthy investors, explained police spokeswoman Julia Schick. It often involves the alleged purchase of luxury items such as watches or gold. These transactions are merely intended to build trust.

Rip Deal Fraud Cases Solved: Man Was Member of a "Rip Deal OCG"

The 36-year-old is said to belong to a "Rip Deal OCG," with the abbreviation standing for organized crime group. The three fraud cases, totaling one million, are said to have been committed by him with other perpetrators between 2018 and 2020. After the arrest for an attempted commercial theft, investigators found clues. "The suspect is said to be one of the accomplices in a rip deal case from 2019. Here, a wealthy businesswoman became the victim of a serious fraud, as she was allegedly handed counterfeit money in a six-figure euro amount during the transaction of the agreed deal by the suspect," Schick described. The Italian has already made a full confession. Specifically, the fraudsters posed as an investment firm to the woman, who organized large and luxury events, and made an agreement for accommodations for events. The entrepreneur, based in Vienna, had lost around half a million euros. The 36-year-old was arrested after being caught stealing in a large shopping center in Parndorf in northern Burgenland. He is said to have worn a specially prepared jacket.

Police Offer Tips Against Rip Deal Fraud

"If you are suspicious, contact the nearest police station and refrain from pending transactions," advises the police. "Trust your gut feeling." For the sale of - especially luxurious - possessions, one should not travel abroad, it was further stated. "Be vigilant and become suspicious if the potential buyer or business partner makes no effort to negotiate the purchase price. Conduct research on your business partners and ask for references from buyers - especially when selling luxury goods. In any case, report a rip deal domestically and not just abroad."

(APA/red)

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