INTERPOL Warns AI-Enhanced Fraud 4.5x More Profitable Than Traditional Methods

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 22:24:18 +0000
Financial Services

INTERPOL's 2026 Global Financial Fraud Threat Assessment finds AI-enhanced fraud is 4.5 times more profitable than traditional methods, with 'Agentic AI' systems capable of autonomously executing complete fraud campaigns. The report documents that criminal networks are increasingly collaborating with specialized money laundering groups, and terrorist groups in parts of Africa have been found using crypto-based fraud schemes as a funding source. Since 2024, INTERPOL has seen a 54% increase in fraud-related Notices and Diffusions, supporting 1,500+ transnational fraud cases involving USD 1.1 billion in lost assets. INTERPOL is launching Operation Shadow Storm, a UK Home Office-funded international task force, alongside new National Anti-Scam Centre guidelines to coordinate global response.