US-UK Partnership Targets Crypto Scam Operations with Joint Disruption Operation

The US and UK have joined forces to tackle crypto scam operations through a joint law enforcement partnership. The two nations signed a memorandum of understanding, enabling them to conduct parallel investigations into cross-border scam centers involved in crypto and cyber-enabled investment fraud.

The agreement allows authorities to share information on organized crime syndicates and coordinate which jurisdictions should prosecute specific cases. An early October in-person disruption operation is planned in London with private-sector partners, reflecting the reality that many crypto fraud ecosystems rely on services, infrastructure, and payment channels outside traditional law enforcement boundaries.

The US-UK framework for joint investigations aims to reduce 'handoff gaps' exploited by scam centers. These operations often involve recruiting victims online, routing funds across multiple platforms and jurisdictions, and using different legal systems for each stage of the scheme.

The crackdown on crypto-enabled investment scams comes as reported losses in the US have risen sharply. FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center data indicates US losses increased 89% from $4.57 billion in 2023 to $8.65 billion in 2025.