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Cyber crime experts from the Australian Federal Police assist in the training of organised crime investigators and cyber police.
In the wake of dismantling a major scam operations centre operating out of a dedicated compound in the Philippine capital of Manila, AFP cyber crime experts are continuing to work with partners throughout the region to combat the organised crime cartels that operate these so-called “boiler rooms”.
The AFP International Network has been working with partners in the Philippines, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar to disrupt and dismantle scam centres, while two cyber crime experts were recently deployed to AFP Philippines to assist in a five-day training workshop on criminal trends and the technologies they’re leveraging.
The workshop – part of the AFP’s Operation Firestorm – was hosted by the Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC) in a building that was once a scam hub but has since been repurposed as a government building, and included members of the PAOCC, the National Bureau of Investigation Cyber Crime Division and Special Taskforce, and the Philippines National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group.
“This course not only enhances the investigative capabilities of Philippine law enforcement, but it also fosters collaboration and networking between agencies, strengthening the broader international response to cyber crime,” AFP Commander of Cybercrime Operations Graeme Marshall said in a 1 April statement.
“To stop scams at their roots, we must target and disrupt scam centre boiler rooms fuelling their growth and outreach. Our priority is to protect Australians and their savings from being defrauded by scammers wherever they may be in the world.
“The AFP will continue to work alongside Philippine law enforcement as well as law enforcement agencies across south-east Asia in the shared fight against online fraud and scams, further demonstrating the value of international cooperation in addressing this ever-evolving threat.”
PAOCC Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz added that law enforcement agencies must strive to keep ahead of rapidly evolving cyber threats.
“This training, provided by the Australian Federal Police, has empowered our law enforcers and government officers with the essential tools to combat cyber crime effectively, reinforcing our united fight against digital threats,” Cruz said.
Operation Firestorm, in conjunction with Philippine law enforcement, has assisted in the closing of three scam centres in Manila.
What to do if you’re a victim of a scam
Situations such as this can be upsetting. If you, or someone you know, needs help, we encourage you to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636. They provide 24/7 support services.
David Hollingworth has been writing about technology for over 20 years, and has worked for a range of print and online titles in his career. He is enjoying getting to grips with cyber security, especially when it lets him talk about Lego.
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