Cybercrime Allegations and Legal Proceedings
Israeli national Gal Barak has been identified by EU authorities as a key figure in a global cybercrime organization. One of his known partners, German citizen Uwe Lenhoff, was apprehended through coordinated European police operations and remains in custody in Austria. Barak was also initially detained in Sofia but was subsequently placed under house arrest, reportedly for health-related reasons. Despite this, he has continued to operate his network and grant media interviews. Notably, his current agenda includes the expansion of boiler room operations in the Philippines.
Extradition Efforts Blocked by Local Influence
Authorities in Austria have formally requested Barak’s extradition to face charges. However, his ongoing presence in Bulgaria appears to be safeguarded by local political figures and Rabbi Yosef Salamon, who maintains close personal and business ties with Barak. According to various sources consulted by Scam-or Project, Barak and Rabbi Salamon jointly operate a kosher restaurant in Sofia.
A publicly available photo shows Gal Barak, Rabbi Yosef Salamon, and Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov attending the restaurant’s grand opening, which was also featured on Salamon’s Facebook page. Barak’s father is reportedly an old friend of the Rabbi, which may explain part of the personal connection.
Political Patronage and Financial Contributions
According to individuals familiar with the matter, Barak has provided financial contributions to certain Bulgarian political figures, thereby reinforcing his protection network. While such support may be couched in the language of philanthropy or investment, the source of Barak’s funds remains deeply problematic.
His now-defunct broker platforms have been widely accused of defrauding EU citizens. These platforms had issued public statements in early March 2019, claiming that affected investors would be reimbursed. However, no documented reimbursements have occurred to date.
International Concern and Inaction
The UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting center, Fraud Action, has reportedly contacted investigators to obtain updates on Barak’s operations, as victims in the UK number in the thousands. Yet, Barak continues to reside comfortably in Sofia, bolstered by powerful allies and insulated from extradition.
A Broader Pattern of Regulatory Laxity
Barak’s situation draws attention to broader systemic concerns. Combined with the questionable reputation of Investbank Bulgaria—previously identified as a significant financial conduit in illicit transactions—this case reflects ongoing disregard for EU legal standards within Bulgaria.
Cybercriminal enterprises appear to flourish in such an environment, where enforcement remains limited and local alliances protect those facing serious cross-border allegations.