**Tbilisi Call Centers Exposed as Part of Global Scam Network**
For years, two call centers in Tbilisi’s heart have been scamming people worldwide and stealing millions of dollars. A recent investigation by OCCRP and its Georgian media partners has revealed the extent of the fraud.
The call centers were allegedly part of a larger network operating in Israel, Eastern Europe, and Georgia. The investigation used data provided by an anonymous source to expose the scammers’ identities and methods.
**Millions Stolen**
According to the investigation, more than 32,000 people worldwide were convinced to make bogus “investments” totaling at least $275 million. In Tbilisi alone, about 80 fraudsters stole more than $35 million from over 6,100 victims between May 2022 and February 2025.
**Key Figures**
The company behind the Tbilisi call centers is allegedly LTD A.K. Group, owned by Meri Shotadze. Her accomplice was Akaki Kevkhishvili, who mostly stayed behind the scenes. The investigation revealed that the scammers employed mostly young Georgians fluent in foreign languages.
**Exposure and Concerns**
Despite previous exposures of fraudulent call centers in Georgia, concerns remain about authorities’ involvement or role in their operations. The Prosecutor’s Office said it was “studying” the information, while the State Security Service claimed the issue was not within its jurisdiction.
**Global Challenge**
Online fraud networks like this one pose a significant global challenge, with over $500 billion lost annually. Former Interpol secretary general Jürgen Stock noted that online services have become a “sharpest sword in the arsenal of criminal groups.”
Read More @ civil.ge
