Cyber Scammers Relocate to Vulnerable Nations: UN Warns of New Criminal Hotspots
Criminals are relocating cyber-scam centers to countries like Timor-Leste, capitalizing on their limited scam center responses. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime found evidence of scam activity in a Timor-Leste hotel, highlighting a trend of scammers shifting to less experienced jurisdictions.

Hot Take:
Looks like cybercriminals are playing a twisted game of musical chairs, just without the music and with lots more scamming. As Southeast Asia tightens the noose, they’re off to new lands, perhaps hoping for a warm “Welcome” banner and a clueless police force. While Timor-Leste might not yet be the Maldives of scam centers, it seems to be gaining popularity among the cyber-elite. Meanwhile, China’s out here accusing the US of a chip-flavored Trojan Horse. Who knew tech drama could be this spicy?
Key Points:
- Cybercriminals are shifting operations to less vigilant countries like Timor-Leste.
- The US has imposed sanctions on cyber-scam centers in Myanmar and Cambodia.
- APNIC offers discounted fees for members from Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
- Japan funds Micron for high-speed DRAM development, with buyer preferences.
- China investigates US chip dumping, suspecting foul play in pricing strategies.