In a major international crackdown on cybercrime networks, a global operation led by INTERPOL has resulted in the shutdown of more than 45,000 malicious IP addresses and servers linked to phishing, malware, ransomware, and online fraud campaigns. During the coordinated action, 94 suspects were arrested worldwide, while another 110 individuals remain under investigation. Authorities also seized 212 electronic devices and servers during raids conducted at multiple locations across participating countries.
The action was carried out as part of the third phase of Operation Synergia, which ran between July 18, 2025, and January 31, 2026. The operation involved law enforcement agencies from 72 countries and territories working together to dismantle cybercriminal infrastructure, disrupt emerging digital threats, and protect potential victims from large-scale online scams.
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Raids across multiple countries expose major networks
Investigations during the operation uncovered several cybercrime networks operating in different regions. In Bangladesh, authorities arrested 40 suspects and seized 134 electronic devices linked to cyber offences including online loan scams, fake job schemes, identity theft, and credit card fraud.
In Togo, investigators apprehended 10 suspects accused of running a cyber fraud ring from a residential area. Authorities found that some members of the group were involved in hacking social media accounts, while others carried out social engineering attacks, including romance scams and sextortion schemes targeting unsuspecting victims.
Social media accounts used to target victims’ contacts
Investigators said that in many cases, criminals first gained unauthorized access to victims’ social media accounts. Once inside, they impersonated the account owners and began communicating with their contacts.
By building emotional trust or pretending to form romantic relationships, the scammers persuaded victims’ friends or relatives to transfer money, resulting in financial losses for several individuals.
Over 33,000 phishing websites detected in Macau
Authorities in Macau identified more than 33,000 phishing and fraudulent websites during the operation. Many of these sites were designed as fake online casinos, while others mimicked banks, government services, and payment platforms.
These fraudulent websites were created to trick users into depositing funds or entering sensitive personal and financial information, which was later used by criminals to carry out financial fraud.
Transnational cyber fraud network targeted in India
Meanwhile, in India, investigators carried out searches at 15 locations across Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab as part of a probe into a large online investment and part-time job scam network.
Preliminary findings revealed that an organized transnational syndicate used social media platforms, mobile applications, and encrypted messaging services to lure victims with promises of high returns from online investments or easy income through part-time jobs.
According to investigators, victims were initially encouraged to invest small amounts and were shown fake profits on fraudulent websites to gain their trust. Once confidence was established, they were persuaded to deposit larger sums of money.
Multiple bank accounts used to hide money trail
Investigators also found that the money obtained through fraud was quickly transferred through multiple mule bank accounts to obscure the financial trail.
The funds were later withdrawn through overseas ATMs using internationally enabled debit cards or used for foreign transactions. In some cases, the money was converted into cryptocurrency and transferred to various digital wallets.
Authorities arrested Ashok Kumar Sharma, identified as a key member of the syndicate. Several bank accounts linked to the network have been frozen, and investigators have seized documents and digital evidence related to the group’s operations.
Experts warn about rise of social engineering attacks
Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said cybercriminals today rely heavily on social engineering tactics rather than purely technical hacking methods.
According to him, criminals increasingly exploit human psychology by building trust through fake investment offers, online job opportunities, or emotional relationships. He noted that international cybercrime gangs are using social media, encrypted messaging platforms, and fraudulent digital platforms to target victims on a large scale.
He advised people to remain cautious and avoid trusting unknown links, suspicious investment offers, or online job proposals, and to immediately report suspicious activity to cybercrime authorities.
Cybercrime emerging as a global challenge
Cybersecurity experts say the rapid expansion of internet usage and digital payment systems has also created new opportunities for cybercriminals worldwide. Coordinated international operations such as this help disrupt criminal networks and prevent large-scale financial losses.
Investigators said that further arrests could be made as digital evidence collected during the operation continues to be analysed. Authorities in several countries are currently working to identify additional suspects and track financial transactions linked to the cybercrime networks.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
