FinCEN Links $13B in Crypto Scams to Southeast Asia-Based Criminal Groups

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) said digital asset scams targeting residents of the United States were largely carried out by transnational criminal organizations operating from compounds in Southeast Asia. According to the agency, the scams were associated with approximately $13 billion in cryptocurrency-related activity. FinCEN’s report highlights the international nature of crypto fraud affecting US residents, with perpetrators based outside the country. The agency described the groups as transnational criminal organizations and identified Southeast Asian compounds as the main operating locations cited in its findings. Cointelegraph reported the agency’s assessment on September 4, 2026. The disclosure provides context for ongoing scrutiny of illicit activity involving digital assets, but the supplied information does not identify specific cryptocurrencies, individual organizations, enforcement actions, or measures announced by FinCEN in connection with the reported figure.