US uncovers Iranian fraud network that allegedly scammed American companies

According to the U.S. State Department, the sanctions are part of the broader "Economic Fury" campaign and target individuals and entities acting on behalf of Iran’s Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL).

The network, allegedly led by Iran-based Ali Majd Sepehr, is accused of defrauding dozens of U.S. technology companies out of millions of dollars by posing as legitimate American businesses. Authorities say the operation sought to acquire advanced equipment, including spectrum analyzers and security detection devices, for use by Iran’s defense establishment.

Investigators found that the network created fake websites designed to resemble real U.S. companies, used intermediaries in Dubai to receive shipments, and then smuggled the restricted technology into Iran in violation of U.S. sanctions.

"Today's action highlights the U.S. government's efforts to protect the security of the U.S. people, businesses, and proprietary technologies," the State Department said in a statement. "The United States will continue to impose maximum pressure against the Iranian regime to severely constrict its ability to advance its destabilizing activities."

In a related move, the U.S. Department of State's Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program is offering up to $15 million for information that helps disrupt the financial mechanisms of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated branches.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, as Washington continues to intensify efforts to curb Tehran's military procurement networks and regional influence.