Google Sues China-Based Scammers Behind Massive Text Phishing Operation

Google sues Chinese cybercriminals using RICO Act for massive text-message phishing network affecting millions in the U.S.

By Content Team

Nov 13, 2025

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Google filed a federal lawsuit against Chinese cybercriminals running "Lighthouse," a massive text-message phishing network that compromised 15-100 million credit cards and affected over one million victims in the U.S.

The scammers sent fake texts about "stuck packages" or "unpaid tolls" to steal passwords and credit card information. Google's general counsel Halimah DeLaine Prado said they're using the RICO Act—typically reserved for organized crime—to target 25 unknown operators who built a "phishing-as-a-service" platform.

The lawsuit aims to deter future criminals rather than recover victim losses. While prosecuting overseas scammers is challenging, experts say it could disrupt similar operations and prevent these individuals from traveling to the U.S.

Source: CBS News

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