Chikli’s success relied on psychological manipulation rather than high-tech hacking.
: He would call high-ranking executives or bank managers, impersonating their CEO or a high-level government official.
: He created a sense of extreme urgency and secrecy, claiming the money was needed for a "top-secret state mission" (such as a counter-terrorism operation or a hostage rescue).
: He held video meetings from a room meticulously staged to look like a government office, complete with a French flag and portraits of officials.
Chikli’s most audacious scheme involved impersonating the French Minister of Defense, .