Turkish authorities crack down on lawyers using IBAN fraud scheme

Turkish authorities have launched an operation against a group of lawyers accused of using an ‘IBAN scheme’ to generate illicit profits. According to Mahmut Şahin, President of the Consumers Union, certain lawyers were intentionally withholding their IBAN information from citizens who had been ordered by courts to pay fines or fees.

By refusing to provide direct payment details, these lawyers forced the losing parties into formal enforcement proceedings. This tactic allowed the lawyers to collect both the original legal fees and additional enforcement attorney fees, resulting in unjust enrichment.

Following investigations triggered by public reports and complaints, several lawyers with significant account movements—ranging from 20 to 24 billion lira—have been taken into custody. The Ministry of Justice has also acknowledged the situation. Şahin urged citizens to remain vigilant and report similar irregularities to the proper authorities to prevent such fraudulent practices.