Authorities have arrested 40 suspects involved in a widespread bank fraud operation that used personal information obtained from the dark web to steal between $360,000 and $600,000 from victims, many of whom were based in the Houston area. The victims were unaware that their private data had been compromised until the stolen funds began disappearing from their accounts.

The investigation, known as “Operation Cash Back,” revealed that the criminals used the stolen data to initiate unauthorized wire transfers from victims’ bank accounts. The stolen funds were then laundered through accounts belonging to friends, family members and others recruited via social media.

Mont Belvieu Police Chief Jimmy Ellison explained the complexity of the operation, noting that criminals often have ample time to exploit stolen data. “Once they get the information, they start making wire transfers out of the victim’s bank accounts,” Ellison said.

The ringleaders of the scheme — 23-year-old Gregory Edwards III, 25-year-old Doc Frank, 20-year-old Jayson Gipson, and 21-year-old Lajewel McGilbray — have been charged with engaging in organized criminal activity and money laundering. The investigation also uncovered that some of the group’s associates were located in other states, including Georgia and Illinois.

As authorities continue to pursue additional suspects, online security experts urge the public to protect themselves by using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and using biometric security features whenever possible. The arrests represent a significant victory in the fight against cybercrime, but the threat remains, and vigilance is essential.