Albania launches probe on covert call centers acting as brokerage firms

TIRANA, July 2 – Albania has launched a probe into dozens of call centers allegedly operating as covert unlicensed brokerage firms involved in fraud operations by offering potential investors attractive return rates for high-risk financial products. The investigation comes after an investigative media article identified at least 80 unlicensed brokerage companies operating in Albania, allegedly involved in defrauding foreign investors, tax evasion and exposing young adults to serious legal repercussions. In a hearing with MPs a month ago, the head of Albania’s Financial Supervisory, Ervin Koà§i, said he had asked for support by intelligence and money laundering prevention officers to…