PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — A former Rhode Island resident is facing charges of wire fraud and money laundering for allegedly posing as a software developer and businessman to defraud investors, U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha announced. Jack A. Ranallo, 69, who also went by the alias "Giacomo A. Siciliano," is accused of falsely claiming to be the owner of several companies and presenting himself as a "Master Software Architect" and "Data Scientist." From February 2018 to November 2022, Ranallo allegedly orchestrated a scheme to steal funds from Rhode Island investors by claiming he was developing software, including a cybersecurity program called iGuardian360 and Intelligrid, which he said could divert electricity between power stations to prevent outages. He also falsely claimed to own a company named iGuardian Angel, which he said held copyrights for his cybersecurity software. READ ALSO: 3 arraigned for alleged gift card tampering at RI stores The indictment further alleges that Ranallo fabricated another company, 1013 Products Group, which he claimed would acquire and resell liquidated products. To convince investors of the legitimacy of his businesses, Ranallo allegedly used fake text messages and phone calls from high-profile entrepreneurs like Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. He told investors these businessmen were interested in his software and that he consulted with them. Ranallo is also accused of showing investors checks made out to these companies and the "Register of Copyrights" to reinforce his claims, before depositing the checks into his personal bank account, along with funds from his investors. The indictment states that Ranallo used the stolen funds to purchase a condominium, vehicles, and other personal items. He is now charged with seven counts of wire fraud and three counts of money laundering. 12 Responds: Providence man charged for phone he never had Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News SIGN UP NOW