The Basic Prosecution Office in Gjilan has confirmed the arrest of 15 individuals suspected of conducting computer fraud and credit card abuse in a sophisticated operation that targeted a commercial bank in Kosovo.
The group is accused of interfering with the computer system of Raiffeisen Bank over a period from January to October 2024, exploiting a 15-second synchronization window between E-Banking and ATM transactions to unlawfully withdraw large sums of money.
“The suspects acted in an organized manner with prior coordination, aiming to gain unlawful financial benefit,” the prosecution stated.
Technical Exploit Led to Massive Losses
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects used the synchronization delay to execute rapid ATM withdrawals before the system could register the transactions in real time. The total financial damage is estimated at €186,000.
The case highlights a serious breach of digital banking infrastructure and raises concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in Kosovo’s financial sector.
Legal Action Underway
The prosecution announced that it will request pre-trial detention for the suspects on charges of:
- Computer Fraud
- Issuing Uncovered or Fake Checks
- Abuse of Bank or Credit Cards
“The prosecution remains committed to combating criminal offenses that threaten the security and integrity of the country’s financial systems,” the statement concluded.
