MoneyNetInt Ltd: A Payment Processor’s Role in the Lenhoff-Barak Cybercrime Network

Overview

MoneyNetInt Ltd, a UK-registered payment services provider (psp), has come under scrutiny for its alleged involvement in facilitating transactions for the fraudulent operations led by Uwe Lenhoff and Gal Barak. These operations, involving illegal broker platforms, reportedly defrauded numerous retail investors across Europe.​

Regulatory Status

MoneyNetInt Ltd is authorised by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under reference number 900190. Despite this authorisation, the company has been implicated in processing transactions for entities associated with fraudulent activities.​

Involvement in Fraudulent Schemes

Investigations have revealed that MoneyNetInt facilitated financial transactions for several entities linked to the Lenhoff-Barak network. These entities include:​

• Global Payment Solutions Podgorica

• Xtrabit s.r.o. (Czech Republic)

• Street Smart Enterprise Ltd​

Funds from these entities were reportedly funneled through MoneyNetInt’s accounts in countries such as Germany, Poland, and Liechtenstein. These transactions were often disguised using fictitious invoices for services like marketing and consulting.

Ownership and Management

According to UK Companies House records, MoneyNetInt Ltd is controlled by three Israeli nationals:​

• Raphael Yehudah Golan

• Gil Asher Trif

• Yishay Moshe Trif​

The company’s registered address is Stirling House, 9 Burroughs Gardens, London NW4 4AU.

Financial Overview

A summary of MoneyNetInt Ltd’s financials is presented below:​

Conclusion

The case of MoneyNetInt Ltd highlights the critical role payment service providers can play in facilitating or preventing financial fraud. As investigations continue, the importance of stringent compliance and oversight within the financial sector becomes increasingly evident.