AI supercharging online scams across Asia, warns Interpol's cybercrime chief

Cybersecurity firm Trend Micro detected and blocked more than 6.5 billion cyberthreats across Asia and the South Pacific in 2024. The data, shared with Interpol, shows a significant rise in AI-driven operations and ransomware attacks, with regional phishing rates reaching roughly twice the global average.

Which industries are facing the most ransomware attacks?

More than 135,000 ransomware attacks were recorded across the region during the same period, according to Trend Micro. These attacks specifically targeted the financial services, real estate, and manufacturing industries.

The report also highlights a vulnerability in cloud-based applications, which have emerged as primary targets for attackers. In the Asia and South Pacific region, 5.5 out of every 1,000 individuals clicked on phishing links each month.

Did You Know? Discussion of deepfakes on Telegram channels and cybercriminal forums used by Southeast Asian threat actors rose 600 per cent between February and June 2024.

How is AI changing the nature of organized crime?

Interpol warned that organized crime groups in Southeast Asia are increasingly integrating AI into cyber-enabled operations. This includes the use of large-scale scam compounds that exploit trafficked workers and victims.

Jetton, a source associated with the findings, described this shift as the “industrialisation of cybercrime.” He stated that AI removes the requirement for criminals to be technically savvy, as the technology can now generate tailored and legitimate-looking phishing emails.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the “industrialisation” of these threats suggests a lowering of the entry barrier for cybercriminals. By replacing technical skill with AI automation, organized crime groups can scale their operations rapidly, increasing the volume and precision of attacks against a broader demographic.

Why are more people becoming targets?

The expanding scope of attack is driven by the digitisation of society. Jetton pointed to the widespread use of online banking, social media presence, and smartphone ownership as primary factors creating a larger pool of potential victims.

AI supercharging online scams across Asia, warns Interpol’s cybercrime chief

While the Trend Micro report focuses on the South Pacific and Asia, Jetton stressed that online scams and phishing are now among the most common forms of cybercrime on a global scale.

What may happen next in regional cybersecurity?

The continued integration of AI could lead to more sophisticated phishing campaigns that are harder for the average user to detect. As society becomes further digitised, the number of potential targets is likely to grow.

Organized crime groups may further expand their use of AI to manage scam compounds or refine deepfake technology to target high-value industries. This evolution could necessitate a shift in how financial and manufacturing firms secure their cloud-based applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which industries were most affected by ransomware in Asia and the South Pacific?
According to Trend Micro, the manufacturing, real estate, and financial services industries were targeted.

How does the phishing rate in this region compare to the rest of the world?
The report found that 5.5 out of every 1,000 individuals clicked phishing links monthly, which is roughly twice the global average.

What role does AI play in modern phishing emails?
Jetton stated that AI allows attackers to generate phishing emails that look legitimate and tailored without needing to be technically savvy.

Do you believe current digital banking security is enough to counter AI-generated scams?