Identity Theft Fraud Ring Used $1.2M in Fake Credit Card Purchases

Identity theft fraud ring stole data from SoCal residents

A Korean national and five Chinese nationals were charged in an identity theft fraud ring that stole the personal data of hundreds across Southern California. The group used the information to create fake credit cards and IDs, federal agents said.

Korean man pleads guilty; others already sentenced

Scott Jung (30), also known as Hyunwoo Jung, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit device fraud and possession of a false ID with intent to defraud, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 5.

The five other members of the identity theft fraud ring have already been sentenced to federal prison:

• Steven Cheng (36, Chino Hills) – 42 months

• Qian Guo (37, Chino Hills) – 33 months

• Ming Wang (28, Temple City) – 18 months

• Zhaozhu Yan (30, Alhambra) – 12 months

• Rachel Liu (35, Chino Hills) – 50 months

They were convicted of crimes including visa fraud, manufacturing fake IDs, and aiding fraud.

$1.2M spent using fake cards at major retailers

The group used counterfeit credit cards to spend more than $1.2 million, ICE said. They made purchases at major retailers including Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Agents said the fraud ring used stolen Social Security numbers, birthdates, and addresses to create fake profiles. The operation caused widespread damage to both individuals and businesses.

Multi-agency investigation still ongoing

The case involved multiple agencies, including ICE, the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Justice Department’s Violent Organized Crime Section (VOCS), and local police departments in Alhambra and Arcadia.

The Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), part of the U.S. State Department, has opened a separate probe. Authorities say the group also used fake IDs when entering the United States.

The bust marks another example of a growing number of identity theft fraud rings operating in Southern California, targeting both private data and retail systems.