#smurfing money laundering

[prep4tomoro]

Political Contributions Fraud (via this Money Laundering Scheme) Could Affect You Without Your Knowledge:

What is Smurfing?

Smurfing Money Laundering: Mechanics, Detection, and Prevention

Wisconsin Ethics Commission is investigating new Supreme Court Justice Janet Protasiewicz’s campaign for alleged money laundering and fraud. A complaint accuses the campaign of “smurfing”–the illegal practice of laundering big money donations through unaware small-dollar donors.

Chris Gleason on Cowboy Logic (09/23/2023)

thejusticesociety.com

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[postalninja]

Former Canada Post employee, and not only can you ship live bees, you can also ship live day-old chicks! There are very *specific* requirement for both to make sure that they will still be alive when they get to their destination.

So I work at a post office and somebody called me today and asked if they could ship fish to the US, and I wasn’t 100% sure, so obviously I went “let me just check the prohibited goods section of my shipping binder real quick”. Flipped all the way to the US section, found what I was looking for and sent them on their way. But of course naturally after they’d left I’d still had the book open, so naturally I was curious and decided to check it out, and let me tell you, there is some WILD stuff in this book.

•You’re not allowed to ship playing cards to Italy.

•Antarctica simply says refer to Australia. The epitome of logic.

•Andorra is just sad. You’re not allowed to ship artwork, drawings, books or toys of any kind, musical instruments, sheet music, cutlery, furniture, several types of paper, shoes??? It has the longest list of restrictions I’ve come across so far and it’s a country that has a total population of less people than my local college.

•Apparently you aren’t allowed to ship clothing to Ireland, but it only specifies men’s or women’s clothing, so like non-binary people stay winning.

•Only a handful of countries specifically mention that you aren’t allowed to ship asbestos, so like RIP to the rest of the world I guess.

•The US has some very specific things prohibited, including “a knife, gaff, or any other sharp object attached or intended to be attached to the leg of a bird for use in animal fighting ventures” ????

•Canada is the only country I have found so far that specifically states that you cannot ship hate propaganda, which I thought was nice. But then again, it also specifies that you cannot ship any beekeeping apparatuses, but do you know what you CAN ship? LIVE FUCKING BEES.

•There are several countries which seem to be in direct competition with one another, ie pairings of countries that have specifically stated they will not accept anything made in the other country and vice versa.

•You can’t ship things to China that were made in China.

I’m having the time of my life right now.

[darkeagleruins]

Cashier working at Target made 797 contributions to political parties in one day. #Smurfing

Over six years, she made a staggering 7,191 contributions of $43,000.

With $5,801 of it going back to her.

Per the FEC, the average number of contributions per year an individual makes is 1.4, of people making political contributions.

BUT: the cashier did not make all those contributions, or give all that money, nor receive $5,801 back.

This is not a simple case of misappropriation, but a large-scale, fraudulent scheme to criminally launder money into political campaigns.

The money returned goes back into the "system" for the next campaign, the next election.

We've also seen this with extremely large amounts of money, such as FTX, Samuel Bank Freidman, George Soros PACS, etc.

Smurfing is structured criminal money laundering into political campaigns using the names and addresses of senior citizens without their knowledge.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Kayla Gogarty at MMFA:

Amid Kamala Harris’ surging fundraising, right-wing media are alleging that Democratic PAC ActBlue is laundering money through a Virginia donor, claiming there were more than 22,000 donations listed for that individual, totaling over $800,000. But according to data from the Federal Election Commission, the alleged donor actually gave hundreds of thousands to WinRed and other Republican PACs. Regardless, the claim spread — including to former President Donald Trump — and right-wing media figures called on attorneys general to investigate. At least two Republican attorneys general have announced they are looking into it. After President Joe Biden announced that he was dropping out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, fundraising for her campaign surged. Amid that surge, right-wing personalities accused ActBlue of engaging in a money laundering scheme.

As part of these accusations, some right-wing media figures and social media accounts amplified data from a website for a tax-exempt organization, Election Watch, reportedly founded by serial election denier Peter Bernegger, which provides “smurfing data by state.” (“Smurf” apparently refers to “an individual whose ID may have been used to launder money into political campaigns.”) Users can click on a state to see the so-called “smurf” donors, which are apparently identified by “numbers and patterns of transactions” in FEC data “that indeed appear to be highly questionable.”

Right-wing media have seemingly latched onto the first Virginia entry, which the website claims made 22,619 transactions, totaling $839,466. According to FEC data for an individual of the same name living in the same zip code (or at the affiliated address), that individual has made nearly 25,000 transactions since 2019, totaling more than $765,000. Nearly half of the transactions were with WinRed — totaling nearly $380,000. Additional hundreds of thousands went to other Republican PACs. Only four transactions were apparently made with ActBlue — totaling just $66. (Previously, Republican donors have reportedly been “steered … into unwitting donations,” unknowingly signing up for weekly recurring contributions when contributing through WinRed.)

[...]

07/29/24: Just over an hour after Trump made his post, Virginia’s Jason Miyares said his office was “looking into” the claims about ActBlue and money laundering. On social media, Miyares responded to Kirk and said, “My office is aware of these allegations and rest assured, we are looking into it.” The same day, Dan Bishops — the Republican candidate for North Carolina AG — suggested he would take action against ActBlue on “January 1” after being elected. [Twitter/X, 7/29/24, 7/29/24]

07/30/24: Wyoming Republican Secretary of State Chuck Gray announced an “investigation into ActBlue,” citing “nationwide money laundering and identity theft allegations.” In a press release, which he posted on social media, Gray encouraged “any Wyoming citizen who has reason to believe a political action committee stole their identity or falsely reported a donation using their name” to report it to his office. [Wyoming Secretary of State media release, 7/30/24]

08/01/24: Right-wing activist James O’Keefe said he would “personally pay” $3,000 to people who confront potential “smurfs” in their neighborhoods. O’Keefe, the ousted founder of Project Veritas who is now trying to build up O’Keefe Media Group, posted on social media: “Uncover ActBlue Smurfs and get paid like our Citizen Journalists,” urging people to go to Election Watch’s site, “ choose your state, enter your zip code, and start investigating. Not comfortable going door-to-door? … Submit potential Smurfs and links to your FEC findings through our X DMs or Signal.” The post included a video showing how to use Bernegger’s Election Watch site and instructing people to “knock on these people’s doors,” tell them they “seem to be a victim of a money laundering scheme,” and get bank statements from them. [Rolling Stone, 6/20/24; Twitter/X, 8/1/24]

At least two states’ Republicans are conducting politically-motivated investigations against Democratic fundraising agent ActBlue, baselessly accusing them of “laundering money.”

[dosesofcommonsense]

It’s called Smurfing.

[batangtamad]

Undercover Partners (Manhwa)

Genres: Yaoi, Romance, Drama, Webtoons

Status: Completed

Author: JayJay, Otae, Luvloo

Favorite Character: Kangha Nam

Favorite Chapters: Chapter 28, Chapter 54, Chapter 58, and Season 2 Chapter 91, Chapter 104, Chapter 147, and Chapter 174

Plot Synopsis: Kyuho Je wants out. Hot, rich, and with a plan, he’s looking to get out of his family’s multinational mega corporation because, seriously, business is boring. He’ll need help to make more money quick - savvy money launderer Kangha Nam (codename: Smurf) is perfect for the job! But it’s not easy keeping Kangha close with paparazzi and family constantly on watch, and Kyuho will need more than kidnapping and contracts to keep him in his grasp. Will he get more (and want more) than he bargained for?

The story is good, and interesting. It has enough angst to make the story intriguing and a lot of smut which I like. The first season is about the main couple Kangha Nam and Kyuho Je. They are my favorite compared to the second couple. Their story is more interesting and wholesome, but not wholesome at the same time. Their relationship didn't start in a good way. Still, they really fell in love with each other in the end. I love how loyal and really in love they are. I'm also glad that Kangha Nam may be cute and looks fragile, but he is strong, stubborn, and very independent. Kangha saved and helped Kyuho. Their relationship became so healthy and loving.

The second season is about Gunhyun Mo, and Seunguhn Choi. Though, they are not my favorite couple, their story is still cute and interesting. Their relationship was more angsty and had character motivations.

SPOILER ALERT!!

The third season is where the two couples eventually collide. The story also became more intriguing. Too intriguing that in some points I thought the sex scenes was too many; that I want to skips it to find out who will become the new CEO of Delta Prime. Of course, I didn't skip it. And I was so glad that Kangha ended up being the new CEO. He deserved it. I really do recommend it.

[sutrala]

Investigation into ActBlue “smurfing” scandal uncovers alleged large-scale election money laundering scheme http://dlvr.it/TG1l8s

[the-eternal-quest-for-balance]

The lawsuit argues, "Given Plaintiff’s political leanings, he would never consider or consent to donating to any of the ActBlue Campaigns."

"Starting in May 2024, Plaintiff’s personally identifying information (“PII”) has been fraudulently used to make over 385 donations worth over $884 dollars to 62 campaigns and political organizations; 35 of these donations were to the Harris Victory Fund. While these fraudulent donations average out to a very small $3.24 per transaction, they conveniently fit into a loophole created by Federal Election Commission (FEC) reporting requirements," the complaint states. "Of these donations, 86 were initiated as one-time donations, 234 were set up as donations recurring on a weekly basis, and 65 recur on a monthly basis."

[unaccountedformass]

yeah, this was an interesting data point for just how low his stock is now with right wing donors/benefactors. If they can't be bothered to funnel money via merch purchase to Tucker then he has nose dived

Conservative pundits serve billionaire/donors and are unpopular to 99% of the country.

Tucker was propped up for his hate, and these book sales prove how much he depends on his privilege to survive.

[buttercupkg66]

Wisconsin GOP Consultant Files Bombshell Lawsuit Over Fraudulent Use of Information for ActBlue Finance Money Laundering AKA “Smurfing”

[garythingsworld]

JUST IN: Wisconsin GOP Consultant Files Bombshell Lawsuit Over Fraudulent Use of Information for ActBlue Finance Money Laundering AKA "Smurfing" | The Gateway Pundit | by Jordan Conradson

[dosesofcommonsense]

Smurfing…next level money laundering.

Looks like all that unaccounted Ukraine money is going to magically come back into the US as campaign donations. Told you so.

Bigger problem. The FEC knows ActBlu smurfs donations yet hasn’t done a damn thing about it.

Carl Higbie on irregular FEC donations: Act Blue... "When I tell you Democrats are a machine, this is the kind of stuff I'm talking about."

Money Laundering through smurfs 🤔

[assaultlawyersbrisbane]

The Intricate Web of Money Laundering: Understanding the Hidden Crime

Money laundering is one of the most intricate and deceptive financial crimes plaguing the global economy. While it may sound like a term ripped from the pages of a crime thriller, money laundering is a very real and pervasive issue that affects economies, destabilizes nations, and undermines the integrity of financial systems worldwide. This blog aims to unravel the complexities of money laundering, highlighting its stages, techniques, impact, and efforts to combat it.

What is Money Laundering?

Money laundering is the process of making illegally-gained proceeds—referred to as "dirty money"—appear legal. The goal is to disguise the origins of the money obtained through criminal activities such as drug trafficking, terrorism, corruption, and fraud. By laundering money, criminals can enjoy the profits of their illicit activities without attracting the attention of law enforcement agencies.

The Three Stages of Money Laundering

Placement: This is the initial stage where the illicit funds are introduced into the financial system. The objective is to remove the cash from the location of acquisition to avoid detection. Common methods include depositing small amounts of money into bank accounts, purchasing high-value assets like real estate or luxury goods, and using the funds for gambling.

Layering: The second stage involves concealing the source of the money through a series of complex transactions. This can include transferring money between different accounts, countries, or financial institutions, and converting the money into various financial instruments like bonds, stocks, or traveler's checks. The aim is to create a confusing financial trail that is difficult to trace.

Integration: In the final stage, the 'cleaned' money is reintroduced into the legitimate economy. This can be done through investments in legal businesses, purchasing properties, or simply enjoying the money as legal income. At this point, the funds appear to be legally earned, making them difficult to distinguish from legitimate wealth.

Common Techniques of Money Laundering

Money launderers employ a variety of sophisticated techniques to obscure the origins of their illicit funds:

Smurfing: This involves breaking down large amounts of money into smaller, less suspicious sums and depositing them into various accounts.

Shell Companies and Trusts: These entities can be used to obscure the true ownership of assets and funds, making it difficult to link the money back to its illegal source.

Trade-Based Laundering: This method involves manipulating invoices and trade documents to move money across borders, often through over- or under-invoicing goods and services.

Cryptocurrencies: The anonymity and decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies make them attractive for laundering money, as transactions can be conducted without revealing personal information.

Real Estate: Buying, selling, and renting properties provide an effective means to integrate dirty money into the legitimate financial system.

The Impact of Money Laundering

The consequences of money laundering are far-reaching and devastating:

Economic Distortion: Money laundering can distort economic data and financial markets, leading to inefficiencies and misallocation of resources.

Reputational Damage: Financial institutions and countries perceived as havens for money laundering can suffer severe reputational damage, affecting foreign investment and economic stability.

Funding Criminal Activities: Laundered money often funds further criminal activities, perpetuating a cycle of crime and corruption.

Undermining Legal Institutions: The influx of illicit funds can corrupt public officials and institutions, eroding trust in the rule of law and governance.

Combating Money Laundering

Efforts to combat money laundering involve international cooperation and stringent regulations:

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Regulations: Countries have implemented AML laws requiring financial institutions to conduct due diligence, report suspicious activities, and maintain records of transactions.

Financial Action Task Force (FATF): This intergovernmental body develops and promotes policies to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, providing a framework for countries to follow.

Know Your Customer (KYC): Financial institutions must verify the identity of their clients and understand the nature of their activities to detect and prevent money laundering.

International Cooperation: Countries collaborate through information sharing, joint investigations, and coordinated efforts to track and intercept illicit funds across borders.

[burglarylawyers]

What is Money Laundering?

Money laundering is a term that evokes images of shadowy criminals and complex financial networks. At its core, money laundering is the process by which illicitly obtained money is made to appear legal. This clandestine operation allows criminals to enjoy their ill-gotten gains without raising suspicion. Understanding money laundering is crucial for both financial professionals and the general public, as it plays a significant role in various forms of organized crime, including drug trafficking, terrorism, and corruption.

The Three Stages of Money Laundering

Money laundering typically occurs in three stages: placement, layering, and integration.

Placement:

This is the initial stage where "dirty money" is introduced into the financial system. It can involve depositing large sums of cash into banks, purchasing high-value items like cars or jewelry, or investing in real estate. The aim is to remove the money from its illegal source and introduce it into the financial system without attracting attention.

Layering:

In this stage, the goal is to obscure the origins of the money through a series of complex financial transactions. This can include transferring funds between various accounts, changing currencies, or investing in diverse financial instruments. The purpose is to create a confusing trail that is difficult for law enforcement to follow.

Integration:

The final stage is where the now "clean" money is integrated into the legitimate economy. At this point, the laundered money appears to be derived from a lawful source. This can involve setting up legitimate businesses, purchasing assets, or simply enjoying the wealth in a way that does not arouse suspicion.

Methods of Money Laundering

Criminals use a variety of methods to launder money, constantly evolving to exploit new opportunities and evade detection. Some common techniques include:

Smurfing: Also known as structuring, this involves breaking down large amounts of cash into smaller, less suspicious sums and depositing them into multiple accounts.

Shell Companies and Trusts: These entities can obscure the true ownership of assets and funds, providing a layer of anonymity to the launderer.

Trade-Based Laundering: This method involves manipulating trade transactions to disguise the movement of illicit funds. It can include under or over-invoicing goods and services, falsifying trade documents, or double invoicing.

Gambling: Using casinos to launder money by buying chips with dirty money, gambling minimally, and then cashing out as if the winnings are legitimate.

Real Estate: Purchasing property with illicit funds, and then selling it to integrate the "cleaned" money into the economy.

The Impact of Money Laundering

Money laundering has far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the realm of financial crimes. Its impacts include:

Economic Distortion: Large flows of illicit money can distort economic indicators and lead to misallocation of resources.

Corruption and Crime: Money laundering facilitates corruption and organized crime, undermining the rule of law and weakening institutions.

Loss of Revenue: Governments lose out on tax revenue due to undeclared income and illegal financial activities.

Reputational Damage: Financial institutions involved, knowingly or unknowingly, in money laundering can suffer significant reputational harm, leading to loss of trust and business.

Combating Money Laundering

To combat money laundering, governments and international organizations have developed robust legal and regulatory frameworks. Key initiatives include:

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Laws: These laws require financial institutions to implement measures to detect and report suspicious activities.

Know Your Customer (KYC) Regulations: Financial institutions must verify the identity of their clients to prevent money laundering.

Financial Action Task Force (FATF): An international body that sets standards and promotes effective implementation of legal, regulatory, and operational measures for combating money laundering.

Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs): Financial institutions are mandated to report transactions that they deem suspicious or indicative of money laundering.

[darkeagleruins]

James O’Keefe Exposed Democrat’s MASSIVE Money Laundering Operation

Contributions were made through ActBlue & Citizens all across the US Over $200 Million Laundered

It’s called “Smurfing”: The activity of laundering money by conducting a large number of small transactions through banks and individuals

One Person “contributed ” $217,000 through 12,000 different contributions in a 3 year period, in variations of his name & address.

Thousands of transactions laundering hundreds of millions of dollars

[dosesofcommonsense]

Smurfing at its finest.

ActBlu but work for the Red & Yellow.