UN researchers warn Asian scam operations are spreading across the rest of the world

BANGKOK — Reports from the United Nations reveal that transnational organized crime syndicates in East and Southeast Asia are expanding their scam operations globally in response to increased crackdowns by law enforcement agencies. The lucrative scam centers, which have been prevalent in Southeast Asia for years, are now spreading their operations to Africa and Latin America, targeting victims with false romantic schemes, investment fraud, and illegal gambling activities.

According to the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report titled “Inflection Point: Global Implications of Scam Centers, Underground Banking and Illicit Online Marketplaces in Southeast Asia,” the scam centers in the region generate nearly $40 billion in profits annually. These criminal organizations are now venturing into remote areas with lax law enforcement in search of new opportunities and to mitigate risks posed by crackdowns in Southeast Asia.

The trend of expanding beyond Southeast Asia is evident in the recent crackdowns on Asian-led scam centers in Africa, South Asia, the Middle East, and select Pacific islands. Countries like Nigeria, Zambia, Angola, and Brazil have seen an increase in cyber-enabled fraud activities linked to criminal groups operating in Southeast Asia. Additionally, incidents of trafficking and cyber fraud involving Asian-led syndicates have been reported in Peru and other parts of the world.

The UNODC report highlights the use of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, deepfake, and malware by these criminal organizations to conduct their illicit activities online and evade law enforcement efforts. The convergence of technological advancements and geographical expansion poses a significant challenge for governments worldwide in combating transnational organized crime.

As criminal groups continue to adapt and innovate, governments need to be prepared to address the escalating threat posed by the rise of crime as a service. The UNODC emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and coordinated efforts to combat transnational organized crime and protect vulnerable individuals from falling victim to these elaborate scams.