INTERPOL Warns Phishing, Ransomware, and AI Scams Are Rising Across Asia-Pacific

INTERPOL issued a warning this week regarding a significant surge in cybercrime across the Asia-Pacific region, attributing the rise to increased digitalization, internet access, emerging technologies, and organized criminal groups. The "2025/2026 Asia and South Pacific Cyberthreat Assessment Report" by INTERPOL highlights phishing as the most prevalent cyber threat, with ransomware and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered scams also showing a dramatic increase. The report indicates that these sophisticated cyber threats are being perpetrated by organized criminal networks that exploit the varying levels of cybersecurity preparedness across different nations in the region. INTERPOL's analysis points to the rapid adoption of new technologies as a double-edged sword, enabling economic growth but also providing new avenues for cybercriminals. The organization emphasizes the need for enhanced regional cooperation and capacity building to combat these evolving threats effectively. Specific details on the exact percentage increases for each type of cybercrime were not immediately available, but the report underscores a qualitative shift towards more advanced and widespread attacks.