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16 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
Science & TechnologyPolity & GovernanceNEWS

Interpol Counters Cybercrime with AI Tech in Singapore

Interpol uses AI to combat cybercrime, facing challenges from sophisticated syndicates.

Interpol is using artificial intelligence to combat cybercrime. Crime syndicates are exploiting technology to target individuals, states, and corporations. Interpol's Singapore-based director of cybercrime, Neal Jetton, considers the weaponization of AI by cybercriminals as the biggest threat.

AI is used to create sophisticated voice and video copies for scams. Interpol's Cyber Fusion Centre shares intelligence among 196 member countries. Interpol coordinated "Operation Secure" in Asia, leading to arrests and the dismantling of malicious infrastructures.

They also supported the crackdown on online scam centers in Southeast Asia through intelligence-sharing.

Key Facts

1.

Interpol is using AI to counter cybercrime.

2.

Cybercriminals are weaponizing AI to create sophisticated scams.

3.

Interpol's Cyber Fusion Centre shares intelligence among 196 member countries.

4.

AI can be used to create fake voice and video copies for scams.

5.

Low-skilled criminals can purchase hacking and scamming tools on the dark web.

6.

Interpol coordinated Operation Secure in Asia to combat cybercrime.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper 3: Science and Technology - Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life

2.

GS Paper 3: Security - Cyber security

3.

Connects to India's cybersecurity policy and international cooperation efforts

4.

Potential for questions on AI ethics and governance

In Simple Words

Cybercrime is getting smarter because criminals are using AI. They can create fake voices and videos to trick people. Interpol, the international police, is fighting back with its own AI tools to catch these criminals.

India Angle

In India, people are increasingly using digital payment methods, making them vulnerable to online scams. Cybercriminals can use AI to create fake profiles or messages that look real, tricking people into sending money or sharing personal information.

For Instance

Imagine you get a call from someone pretending to be a bank employee, and their voice sounds exactly like someone you know. They ask for your OTP to 'update' your account. This could be an AI-generated scam.

Cybercrime can affect anyone with a smartphone or computer. Protecting yourself from these threats is important to avoid financial loss and identity theft.

AI is a double-edged sword; while it helps us, it also helps criminals. Stay vigilant online!

Visual Insights

Interpol's Cybercrime Operations in Asia

This map highlights the regions where Interpol has been actively involved in combating cybercrime, particularly in Southeast Asia, including Singapore where the Cyber Fusion Centre is located.

Loading interactive map...

📍Singapore📍Southeast Asia
More Information

Background

The rise of cybercrime has necessitated international cooperation. Cybercrime, unlike traditional crime, transcends geographical boundaries, making it difficult for individual nations to combat it effectively. Organizations like Interpol play a crucial role in coordinating efforts and sharing intelligence among member countries. Interpol's establishment dates back to 1923, with the aim of facilitating cross-border police cooperation. Over the years, its mandate has expanded to address emerging threats, including cybercrime. The establishment of the Cyber Fusion Centre in Singapore reflects Interpol's commitment to tackling cybercrime through technological innovation and intelligence sharing. This center serves as a hub for member countries to collaborate and share information on cyber threats. Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a double-edged sword in the realm of cybersecurity. While AI offers powerful tools for detecting and preventing cyberattacks, it also presents opportunities for cybercriminals to enhance their malicious activities. The weaponization of AI by cybercriminals poses a significant threat to individuals, businesses, and governments worldwide.

Latest Developments

Recent years have witnessed a surge in sophisticated cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure and sensitive data. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the problem, as increased reliance on digital technologies created new vulnerabilities for cybercriminals to exploit. Governments and organizations worldwide are investing heavily in cybersecurity measures to protect themselves from these evolving threats. Several initiatives have been launched to strengthen international cooperation in combating cybercrime. These include the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, which provides a framework for harmonizing national laws and facilitating cross-border investigations. Additionally, organizations like the United Nations are working to develop a comprehensive international legal framework to address cybercrime. Looking ahead, the focus will be on enhancing AI-powered cybersecurity solutions and promoting greater information sharing among stakeholders. The development of ethical guidelines for AI development and deployment is also crucial to mitigate the risks associated with its misuse. The goal is to create a more secure and resilient cyberspace for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the role of Interpol's Cyber Fusion Centre, and how many countries are involved?

Interpol's Cyber Fusion Centre facilitates intelligence sharing among its member countries to combat cybercrime. There are 196 member countries involved in this global effort.

Exam Tip

Remember the number of member countries (196) for potential prelims questions on international organizations.

2. How are cybercriminals using AI, and what makes this a significant threat according to Interpol?

Cybercriminals are weaponizing AI to create sophisticated scams, including fake voice and video copies. Interpol considers this a major threat because it allows for more convincing and widespread fraud, making it harder to detect and prevent.

Exam Tip

Focus on the 'weaponization of AI' aspect for mains answers related to technology and security.

3. What challenges does Interpol face in combating cybercrime, considering its transnational nature?

Cybercrime transcends geographical boundaries, making it difficult for individual nations to combat it effectively. Interpol faces challenges in coordinating efforts and sharing intelligence among member countries due to varying laws, resources, and priorities. Low-skilled criminals can also purchase hacking and scamming tools on the dark web, increasing the number of potential cybercriminals.

Exam Tip

In Mains, highlight the need for international cooperation and standardized legal frameworks to address cybercrime effectively.

4. Why is Interpol focusing on AI in the context of cybercrime?

Interpol is focusing on AI because cybercriminals are increasingly using it to create sophisticated scams, including realistic fake voice and video content. This makes it easier to deceive individuals and organizations, increasing the scale and impact of cybercrime.

Exam Tip

Relate this to the broader trend of AI misuse and the ethical concerns surrounding its development.

5. What were the key outcomes of Interpol's 'Operation Secure' in Asia and 'Operation Serengeti 2.0'?

Interpol coordinated "Operation Secure" in Asia, leading to arrests and the dismantling of malicious infrastructures. Operation Serengeti 2.0 led to 1,209 arrests, targeted 88,000 victims, recovered $97 million, and dismantled 11,432 malicious infrastructures.

Exam Tip

Note the scale of impact (number of arrests, amount recovered) for potential data-driven questions in Prelims or Mains.

6. How does Interpol's work in combating cybercrime impact common citizens?

Interpol's efforts to combat cybercrime protect common citizens from online scams, identity theft, and financial fraud. By sharing intelligence and coordinating international law enforcement, Interpol helps dismantle cybercriminal networks and prevent future attacks, creating a safer online environment for individuals.

Exam Tip

Consider the socio-economic impact of cybercrime on vulnerable populations when discussing this topic in the interview.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding Interpol: 1. Interpol was established in 1923 to facilitate cross-border police cooperation. 2. Interpol's Cyber Fusion Centre is located in Singapore. 3. Interpol has 200 member countries. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: Interpol was established in 1923 to facilitate cross-border police cooperation. Statement 2 is CORRECT: Interpol's Cyber Fusion Centre is located in Singapore. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: Interpol has 196 member countries, not 200.

2. In the context of combating cybercrime, consider the following: 1. AI can be used by cybercriminals to create sophisticated scams. 2. Interpol's Operation Secure focused on cybercrime in Africa. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.2 only
  • C.Both 1 and 2
  • D.Neither 1 nor 2
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: AI is used to create sophisticated voice and video copies for scams. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: Interpol's Operation Secure focused on cybercrime in Asia, not Africa.

3. Which of the following statements best describes the role of Interpol's Cyber Fusion Centre?

  • A.It is a research center focused on developing new AI technologies.
  • B.It is a training facility for law enforcement officers specializing in cybercrime.
  • C.It is a hub for sharing intelligence among Interpol's 196 member countries to combat cybercrime.
  • D.It is a data storage facility for cybercrime evidence.
Show Answer

Answer: C

Interpol's Cyber Fusion Centre shares intelligence among 196 member countries to combat cybercrime. It serves as a hub for collaboration and information sharing.

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