Candela Salazar, a 27-year-old social media influencer from Argentina, was arrested on December 3, 2024, after being accused of orchestrating multiple scams. Salazar was detained at Cordoba’s Ambrosio Taravella Airport just before her flight to Buenos Aires was scheduled to depart. The authorities acted upon instructions from District Attorney Lourdes Quagliatti, with assistance from the Economic Crimes Department and the Airport Security Police (PSA).
Simultaneously, law enforcement executed raids on two residences in the Urca neighborhood of Cordoba, where they arrested a second suspect, Nicolas Gionco, 27, for his alleged involvement in the scheme.
The investigation revealed that Salazar and Gionco had been deceiving victims since at least 2022 by promising high returns of 10-12% per month on cryptocurrency investments. So far, four victims have been identified, with a total of $22,900 (£18,000) lost, although authorities believe the number of victims could be much higher.
Salazar, who has over 10,000 followers on Instagram, portrays a lavish lifestyle online, frequently showcasing exotic trips, luxury, and self-help content. In her bio, she promotes herself as a “digital nomad” offering to help others transform their lives through online business ventures. She claimed that joining her “fabulous business” was the key to financial success and personal growth.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests or charges may follow.
