UN reports Asia cybercrime syndicates expanding global reach with tech-fueled scams

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has reported a rapid global expansion of transnational cybercrime syndicates originating from East and Southeast Asia, Jurist News reported. These groups are increasingly leveraging advanced technologies such as AI-generated scams, deepfakes, malware, and underground online marketplaces to extend their reach beyond the region.

The report titled “Inflection Point: Global Implications of Scam Centres, Underground Banking and Illicit Online Marketplaces in Southeast Asia” highlights that these syndicates operate from compounds in Special Economic Zones and border areas, supported by underground banking and cryptocurrency laundering. Annual profits from these scam centers are estimated to approach $40 billion, with a 600% increase in AI-generated deepfake fraud content recorded in early 2024.

UNODC officials warn that these criminal networks exploit vulnerabilities and outpace government responses. The syndicates also rely heavily on human trafficking, coercing thousands into scam operations under false job pretenses and often holding them captive. A recent crackdown in Myawaddy, Myanmar, led to the release of thousands of victims.

The report also reveals growing collaboration between these syndicates and other global criminal actors, including malware developers and unregulated virtual asset providers. UNODC calls for stronger international coordination, enhanced regulatory frameworks, and rigorous enforcement of anti-money laundering laws to combat this escalating threat.

The report follows the findings from October 2024, which uncovered that Asian syndicates are no longer confined to regional strongholds. Criminal operations are dispersing to under-regulated zones in Africa, South Asia, the Middle East, and even parts of Europe and the Americas.