UNODC Report: AI-Powered Cyber Scam Networks Cost Asia-Pacific Up to $114 Billion in 2025

Kathmandu. Cyber fraud cartels operating across the Asia-Pacific region scammed victims out of at least 88 billion US dollars (around Rs 13.56 trillion) in 2025, with losses estimated to reach as high as 114.1 billion dollars, according to a new report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

The report warns that Southeast Asia has become a global hub for cyber fraud, where criminal networks—many linked to Chinese-origin syndicates—are rapidly evolving their operations. These groups are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI), exploiting corruption, and diversifying their revenue streams to stay ahead of law enforcement agencies.