A recent United Nations report warns that transnational organized crime groups are expanding their operations globally, targeting vulnerable regions with lax law enforcement. These groups, primarily based in East and Southeast Asia, have been forced to relocate due to increased crackdowns by authorities.

The scam centers, which use tactics like false romantic ploys, bogus investment pitches, and illegal gambling schemes, have already bilked victims out of billions of dollars. According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), these operations are now being reported in Africa, Latin America, and other regions.

The UNODC estimates that hundreds of industrial-scale scam centers generate nearly $40 billion in annual profits. African countries like Nigeria, Zambia, and Angola have been targeted, with police raids leading to numerous arrests. In Latin America, Brazil has emerged as a hotspot for cyber-enabled fraud and money laundering.

The report highlights the growing involvement of criminal groups from other parts of the world and the use of technology to facilitate their operations. The convergence of accelerated and professionalized operations, geographical expansion, and technological innovation poses a significant threat to global security.

Governments must be prepared to respond to this new intensity in the industry, warns the UNODC. The spread of crime as a service, enabled by online marketplaces, money laundering networks, and stolen data products, requires a coordinated and proactive approach to combat.