Wirecard and SoftSwiss Linked to Illegal Gambling Schemes: Investigation by Bavarian Broadcaster BR
Overview of the SoftSwiss Case A comprehensive investigation by Bavarian broadcaster BR has unveiled critical connections between Wirecard and Berlin-based SoftSwiss, led by Belarusian-born Ivan Montik. As part of BR’s “Gambling without Rules” series, the report reveals SoftSwiss’ significant role in operating illegal online casinos targeting Germany. These findings, corroborated by Scam-Or Project earlier research and Australian regulator ACMA, expose a sophisticated and concealed gambling network stretching across Malta, Cyprus, Curaçao, and Germany.
Key Findings
- SoftSwiss’ Role in Illegal Gambling
- Founded by Ivan Montik, SoftSwiss is identified as a major operator of illegal online gambling platforms with Berlin-based ties.
- Wirecard’s Involvement
- SoftSwiss and its associated entity Direx N.V. (now Dama N.V.) processed over €61 million through Wirecard, which collapsed in 2020.
- Australian Regulator ACMA’s Confirmation
- ACMA identified Ivan Montik and Maksim Trafimovich as key figures behind Direx N.V., operating numerous illegal platforms.
- Complex Ownership Structures
- Transfers between N1 Interactive Ltd (Malta) and Dama N.V. (Curaçao) suggest deliberate efforts to conceal ownership and evade taxes.
- Jan Marsalek’s Role
- Former Wirecard executive Jan Marsalek’s involvement raises suspicions due to his direct requests for financial reports from SoftSwiss.
The SoftSwiss Network
According to BR’s report, Ivan Montik, a Belarusian-born entrepreneur now residing in Berlin, operates SoftSwiss with connections extending globally. The SoftSwiss website highlights operations by Stable Aggregator Limited, formerly N1 Aggregator Limited, licensed by the MGA in Malta.
Structure of the SoftSwiss Network
| Entity | Jurisdiction | Role |
| Stable Aggregator Ltd | Malta | Main operating entity |
| N1 Interactive Ltd | Malta | Gambling operator fined by Dutch regulators |
| Dama N.V. | Curaçao | Operated former Direx N.V. |
| Befree Ltd | Cyprus | Ownership ties to Montik and Kashuba |
| True Infrastructure Ltd | North America | Supporting operations |
The network includes companies in Cyprus, Austria, Lithuania, and the Americas, often managed through nominee arrangements. Law firm Revera, where Helen Mourashko (wife of SoftSwiss executive Pavel Kashuba) is a partner, supports these operations.
Wirecard’s Collapse and Implications
SoftSwiss’ dealings with Wirecard stand out, with insolvency documents showing transactions worth €61 million in 2018. Marsalek, a former Wirecard COO and alleged Russian operative, personally requested financial reports from SoftSwiss in 2020, shortly before fleeing prosecution.
Financial Transactions Overview
| Year | Entity | Amount (€) | Notes |
| 2018 | SoftSwiss | 61 million | Processed via Wirecard |
| 2019 | N1 Interactive Ltd | Unknown | Transfers to Dama N.V. |
Australian Regulator ACMA Findings
ACMA’s investigation confirmed Ivan Montik and Maksim Trafimovich’s leadership roles in Direx N.V. These findings align with court documents from the British Virgin Islands, linking Montik and Kashuba to Befree Ltd, a Cyprus-based operator of illegal casinos.
Regulatory Challenges
Despite mounting evidence, German regulators like GGL struggle to address illegal gambling operations. Measures such as IP blocking and payment restrictions are frequently bypassed by overseas operators. GGL confirmed that SoftSwiss holds no license in Germany and has not applied for one.
Conclusion and Call to Action
BR’s investigation, supported by Scam-Or Project research, uncovers a global network of illegal gambling schemes. The findings implicate SoftSwiss and its affiliates, emphasizing the need for urgent regulatory intervention.
Submit Information
Scam-Or Project encourages whistleblowers with knowledge about SoftSwiss, CoinsPaid, or related entities to step forward. Submit tips securely via Whistle42.com.
