INTERPOL’s 2026 assessment describes financial fraud as a central part of wider criminal ecosystems rather than a peripheral, stand-alone threat. The organisation links modern fraud networks with cybercrime, human trafficking and other organised criminal activity.
The assessment highlights the use of artificial intelligence to increase the speed, scale and persuasiveness of fraud. Synthetic identities, automated social engineering and convincing impersonation can reduce the cost of targeting victims while increasing pressure on authentication and monitoring systems.
A joined-up response
Institutions should connect fraud controls with AML investigations, cyber-security intelligence and victim-support processes. Treating each alert type in isolation can obscure the network behind apparently unrelated events.
