The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has spearheaded a major crackdown on cryptocurrency fraud networks, freezing more than $3.8 million in illicit crypto assets. The supporting evidence appears in the filing.
The operation, known as Disruption Week, involved collaboration with leading technology companies including Coinbase, Meta, SpaceX, Apple, Google, and Microsoft.
Coinbase disclosed that it froze over $3 million in crypto assets connected to criminal organizations as part of the effort. The operation also led to the disabling of more than 1.4 million accounts and the termination of thousands of Starlink kits, with a total of 63 arrests made across multiple countries.
Joint Industry and Law Enforcement Effort Targets Crypto Scams
Disruption Week was coordinated by the DOJ’s Scam Center Strike Force, focusing on dismantling crypto fraud rings primarily based in Southeast Asia.
The campaign brought together private sector companies and law enforcement agencies including the FBI, US Secret Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and international partners such as the Royal Thai Police and the UK’s National Crime Agency.
Meta played a key role in facilitating private sector participation and coordinating the operation, which also included TRM Labs, Silent Push, and Zenlayer.
The collaboration exemplifies a new model where technology firms, crypto platforms, and authorities unite against increasingly sophisticated and borderless criminal networks.
Focus on Southeast Asian Fraud Networks
Intelligence gathered during the operation revealed that many fraud rings operate from hubs in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. These groups often lure victims with promises of high-paying jobs, coercing them into participating in scams targeting victims in the US and other countries.
In Thailand, the Royal Thai Police Anti Cyber Scam Center announced the arrest of seven fraudsters and identified numerous scam platforms. Information collected has been shared with US authorities to support ongoing investigations and prosecutions.
Rising Crypto Fraud Losses Highlight Need for Vigilance
According to FBI data, reported losses from cryptocurrency investment scams surged 24% in 2025, reaching over $7.2 billion, up from $5.8 billion in 2024 and $3.96 billion in 2023. This alarming increase underscores the critical need for coordinated action among investors, platforms, tech companies, and law enforcement.
The scale of Disruption Week’s impact, freezing $3.8 million in crypto, disabling 1.4 million accounts, and making dozens of arrests, demonstrates the effectiveness of cross-sector cooperation in combating crypto fraud.
As scammers employ more advanced digital tactics, such partnerships will be essential to protect the integrity of the crypto ecosystem.
