Zelenskyy submits bills to parliament to step up fight against fraudulent call centers

"Liability for fraudulent call centers must be clear and tough, not only for those who work at the call centers but also for those who organize them, profit from them and own them. The first bill provides for exactly that," the president said.

Zelenskyy said the bills also provide for tougher penalties for organizing fraudulent schemes involving banking instruments, including so-called money mules.

He said appropriate measures should also be taken in the banking system's internal regulations, including changes to algorithms that would give banks greater ability to protect the rights and legitimate interests of individuals and businesses and prevent accounts from being used for tax evasion or laundering proceeds from illegal activities.

According to Zelenskyy, the legislation will provide the necessary legal framework to combat those who organize fraudulent schemes involving bank accounts and payment instruments.

"The same bill is aimed at implementing EU law in Ukraine, as stipulated by agreements with our partners. I ask lawmakers to consider these bills without delay," the president added.

Zelenskyy announced on Sept. 1 that the bills would be submitted to parliament. In a video address, he said the issue "must be dealt with."

"Law enforcement is taking the appropriate steps, and legislative action is also needed. All organizers of call centers must be held accountable," the president said.