In a series of coordinated actions, law enforcement agencies worldwide have arrested dozens of scammers who deceived victims through cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence (AI). The operations, conducted in Vietnam, the United States and Hong Kong, demonstrate the growing scale and complexity of digital crimes.
Cryptocurrency mining fraud in Vietnam
In Vietnam, police arrested four people responsible for a large-scale cryptocurrency mining fraud on January 5. The syndicate, led by Tran Minh Quang, set up a fraudulent website called BitMiner on. Posing as a renowned crypto mining company from Dubai, this website lured more than 200 victims with promises of unrealistic returns.
The scammers stole a total of VND4 billion (approximately $157,300) through the sale of dubious mining packages and educational materials.
Warning about crypto ATM scams in the US
In Springfield, Massachusetts, police warned of a rise in Bitcoin and cryptocurrency scams, particularly through crypto ATMs. This form of fraud forces victims to deposit money into cryptocurrency ATMs, after which it is sent directly to the scammers.
The police advised citizens to be careful:
“If someone calls you and demands payment in cryptocurrency, end the call immediately.”
AI deepfake scams in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, police arrested 31 suspects, including university students, who used AI technology to deceive victims worldwide. The syndicate used deepfake technology to pose as attractive individuals. This tactic served to gain trust and lure victims into romance scams.
The group operated in several countries, including Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and the United States. In total, they stole 34 million Hong Kong dollars (approximately $4.37 million).
During raids, police seized cash, luxury watches and handbags worth 10 million Hong Kong dollars. Five suspects have been charged with conspiracy to defraud; the other suspects have been provisionally released on bail.
International approach to digital crime
With these arrests, authorities worldwide demonstrate their crackdown on digital fraud, ranging from cryptocurrency-related scams to crimes involving AI technology. Citizens are warned to remain alert to suspicious activity and immediately report it to the police.
Source: https://newsbit.nl/politie-treedt-wereldwijd-op-tegen-digitale-fraude/
