Reported fraud surged by almost 70% in Europe in 2025 — the largest rise across the world, Interpol has said. Interpol said there has been a “global surge” in AI-enhanced fraud schemes such as sextortion which, although mainly targeting adults, is also ensnaring minors. €382bn worldwide fraud billInterpol’s global financial fraud threat assessment said losses from fraud across the world amounted to an estimated $442bn (€382bn) in 2025. Interpol said financial fraud was among the “most threatening” crimes globally, along with drug trafficking and money laundering. “AI-enabled financial fraud schemes are very likely to further expand and escalate, as they are estimated to be 4.5 times more profitable than non-enhanced fraud tactics,” the report said.

Source: Irish Examiner March 17, 2026 08:36 UTC