SpainA Spanish-based company operating in Barcelona has been linked to over 100 fake dating websites that allegedly defraud users. These sites funnel payments through CentralPay, a French financial services firm known for working with dubious businesses. According to an investigation led by Mediapart and involving infoLibre, CentralPay has knowingly processed transactions for clients engaged in illegal activities such as selling illicit cannabis products and money laundering. Internal documents obtained by the investigators reveal that despite being aware of these risks, CentralPay continued to work with high-risk clients. This follows previous investigations into similar issues within the online payment sector, including those involving Worldline and Wise. CentralPay holds a license from France’s financial regulator but appears to have failed to address ongoing concerns about its clients’ legality.
Bias read (Center): The article presents findings from an investigative report without overtly favoring any side. It highlights the actions of private companies and their regulatory compliance, which is a matter of public interest but does not directly involve political actors or policy debates. The tone remains fact-l
