International operation takes down criminal network that defrauded thousands through fake trading platforms.

Law enforcement agencies across 12 countries have successfully dismantled one of the largest "pig butchering" cryptocurrency scam operations ever discovered. The sophisticated scheme operated fake investment platforms that defrauded over 5,000 victims worldwide of approximately $80 million. Scammers spent weeks or months building romantic relationships with victims through dating apps and social media before convincing them to invest in fraudulent crypto trading platforms. The platforms displayed fake profits to encourage larger investments before suddenly disappearing with all funds. A total of 47 suspects have been arrested across Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. Investigators warn these scams continue to evolve and increasingly target professionals on LinkedIn and Telegram.