Egypt detains actors behind fake judge scam on social media
– Egyptian authorities have arrested two men for allegedly staging fabricated court scenes and impersonating judges on social media to fraudulently siphon money from citizens.
The ministry cited a scheme in which the suspects used forged identity documents and a faux judicial sash to create video recordings that appeared to depict official court proceedings. These videos were shared on social media platforms where the attackers claimed they could allocate housing through government agencies, enticing people to hand over payments.
Both individuals were apprehended in Cairo and Giza, with police seizing a firearm, the fake sash, and identity cards bearing the counterfeit judicial title. They confessed to collaborating with court staff to film the deceptive content, a fact that officials say undermines public trust in the judicial system.
State‑owned newspaper al‑Ahram reported that several other suspects were detained and have been referred to an expedited criminal trial. The investigation opened after a citizen reported being defrauded by a man who falsely presented himself as a judge.
Law enforcement officials note that the perpetrators’ actions highlight the need for stronger safeguards against online impersonation and have prompted a review of identity verification procedures across digital platforms. The case is being monitored as part of a broader campaign to curb fraudulent activity among public officials in the country.
