Part 9/12:
Detecting and prosecuting these cyber scams is complicated by their transnational nature. Criminal operations often set up hubs in Southeast Asia, Africa, or other regions, using encrypted messaging apps and hiding behind false identities. Police in Australia, the US, and China report that only a small fraction of scams are ever reported—roughly 7%—meaning the real scale likely far exceeds public figures.
Recent arrests, such as a 22-year-old Chinese national in Australia, show some progress. However, cross-border cooperation is hindered by diplomatic and jurisdictional hurdles, especially when scam networks operate in regions with limited law enforcement collaboration.