The European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) has raised concerns over how artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency are making criminal activities more effective.
The agency’s report, published on March 18, highlights how criminals are taking advantage of these technologies to expand their operations, from online fraud to organized crime.
AI has made digital crimes more accessible by removing technical barriers. Generative AI tools allow criminals to create convincing messages in multiple languages. Europol warns that automation has amplified cybercrime, enabling large-scale phishing attacks and the creation of harmful content, including malware and explicit material.
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Another growing threat is the use of AI to generate deepfakes. Europol noted in the report, “The addition of AI-powered voice cloning and live video deepfakes amplifies the threat, enabling new forms of fraud, extortion, and identity theft”.
With these tools, criminals can fabricate realistic images, videos, and voices, which make scams harder to detect.
Beyond AI, Europol highlights the expanding role of cryptocurrency in criminal activities. While crypto was once primarily linked to cybercrime, it is also used in more traditional illegal operations, such as drug trafficking and human smuggling.
Additionally, criminals are developing new methods to steal digital assets, including cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and mining equipment.
Meanwhile, more than 400 Hollywood creative figures, including Paul McCartney, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Rock, and Cynthia Erivo, sent an open letter to the Trump administration. What did the letter say? Read the full story.
Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.
