A Swedish court has sentenced a couple from Lönsboda to prison for celebrity impersonation fraud. The pair posed as famous Swedish personalities on social media to deceive victims. They built trust with their targets before requesting money transfers. Eight victims were tricked into sending nearly 3.5 million kronor (approximately $330,000) to accounts controlled by the defendants. The district court in HÀssleholm delivered the verdict following an extensive investigation into the sophisticated operation. The scheme targeted vulnerable individuals through direct messages on popular platforms. This case highlights how easily social media connections can be exploited for financial gain. The man received a two-year and ten-month prison sentence and will be deported to his home country after serving his term. His accomplice was sentenced to two years and four months in prison. The court acknowledged her reduced sentence due to having two young children who would be negatively affected by a longer separation. Two additional individuals were convicted for serious money laundering offenses. They enabled the fraud by providing their bank accounts for the illegal transactions. The coordinated effort demonstrates how financial crimes often involve multiple participants playing different roles. Swedish authorities have been cracking down on social media fraud as these cases become more frequent across the Nordic region. The sentencing sends a clear message that courts take online impersonation crimes seriously, even when perpetrators attempt to hide behind digital anonymity.
đžđȘ Sweden
5 days ago
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SocietyCouple Sentenced for Celebrity Impersonation Scams
A Swedish couple received multi-year prison sentences for scamming victims out of $330,000 by posing as celebrities on social media. Two accomplices were also convicted for money laundering. The case highlights growing concerns about social media fraud in Nordic countries.
