Scottsdale Uber fake driver steals $300,000 in cryptocurrency

According to the police, the suspect, Nuruhussein Hussein, posed as a booked Uber driver by addressing passengers by name. Once the victims entered the car, he used various manipulative tactics to gain access to their phones.

Crime scheme

In one instance, Hussein asked to borrow a phone, explaining that his device was broken. In another, he offered to fix issues in the Uber app after passengers questioned why their driver had not yet arrived. Using the victims' phones, Hussein transferred cryptocurrency from their Coinbase accounts to a cold wallet under his control.

Arrest and further actions

The man was arrested by Scottsdale detectives in collaboration with special agents from the U.S. Secret Service. He has been charged with theft, fraudulent schemes, and money laundering.

Prosecutors requested a $200,000 cash bond and electronic monitoring if he were released. The court prohibited Hussein from using the internet and leaving the country, fearing evidence destruction or escape to Ethiopia, where he frequently travels. His next court appearance is scheduled for December 18.