Cybercrime Syndicate: Gal Barak’s Partners Shift Responsibility as Legal Pressure Mounts

Arrests and Allegations: The Core of the Criminal Network

Gal Barak and Uwe Lenhoff, identified as key figures in a vast cybercrime organization, were detained by authorities in early 2019. Their arrests were the result of a coordinated operation between Germany, Austria, and Bulgaria. Lenhoff remains in custody in Austria, facing prosecution on multiple charges, including large-scale investment fraud, money laundering, and the formation of a criminal enterprise.

The charges relate to schemes that allegedly defrauded thousands of retail investors across Europe. Alongside Barak and Lenhoff, at least eight additional individuals are under investigation, among them Austrian citizen Joachim Kalcher. Barak, initially apprehended in Sofia, was later placed under house arrest, reportedly due to health concerns. Austria had issued a formal extradition request.

Communications with Gery Shalon and Vladislav Smirnov

According to information obtained by Scam-or Project, two other individuals associated with the organization—Vladislav “Vlad” Smirnov (Russia) and Gery “Gabi” Shalon (Israel)—have attempted to distance themselves from the group’s illegal activities. Shalon is currently awaiting trial in the United States on charges that include securities fraud and money laundering. He was released from custody upon posting a $403 million bond, as part of an undisclosed plea agreement.

In written communications reviewed by Scam-or Project, both Shalon and Smirnov asserted that Gal Barak had repeatedly assured them that all business operations were legally compliant. They claim they were informed that client funds were held in segregated accounts and that all relevant regulatory guidelines were being met. If those assurances were false, they argue, Barak alone bears the responsibility.

Changing Dynamics Among Shareholders

This effort to disassociate from Barak is unexpected given the previously close business relationship among the four stakeholders. The focal point of the investigation, Global FinTech Solutions Ltd, registered in the British Virgin Islands, has four main shareholders: Smirnov, Shalon, Lenhoff, and Barak.

Ownership is structured as follows:

Global FinTech Solutions Ltd also holds full ownership of Tradologic Solutions Ltd, the entity responsible for developing the trading platforms used in the alleged scams. Gal Barak acts as the managing director for both companies, placing him at the operational helm.

Conclusion: Isolation and Escalating Legal Risks

As investigations intensify, it appears that Barak is increasingly being left to face the legal consequences on his own. While former allies like Shalon and Smirnov assert they were misled, authorities continue to piece together the true structure and extent of the alleged financial crimes.

The case remains active, with further developments expected as more details surface from ongoing investigations and upcoming court proceedings.