A detailed overview of Interpol's efforts to coordinate the fight against transnational carding networks

[Student]

Transnational carding networks are organized criminal groups that specialize in the theft of payment card data, credit card fraud, phishing, skimming, and other forms of cybercrime, often using infrastructure distributed across multiple countries. These networks can include hackers, malware developers, phishing platform operators, and traders of stolen data on darknet markets. INTERPOL (the International Criminal Police Organization), which unites 196 member countries, plays a key role in coordinating global efforts to combat such networks. Its approach is based on operational, technical, analytical, and educational measures aimed at disrupting cybercriminal infrastructure, arresting suspects, and preventing financial losses. A detailed analysis of these measures is provided below for educational purposes.

1. Coordination of global operations and investigations​

Interpol organizes large-scale international operations aimed at identifying, neutralizing, and dismantling transnational carding networks. These operations involve joint efforts by law enforcement agencies from various countries, as well as private partners. Here are key examples and details of these initiatives:

• Operation Red Card: Launched as part of INTERPOL's Cybercrime Program, this operation targets financial cybercrime, including carding, phishing, and business email compromise (BEC). The operation has resulted in the arrest of over 1,000 suspects, the dismantling of over 100,000 malicious networks, and the prevention of millions of dollars in damage. Red Card focuses on tracking the infrastructure used to steal card data, such as phishing sites and botnets.
• Operation Serengeti 2.0 (2025): This operation, conducted in 18 African countries with UK participation, resulted in the arrest of 1,209 cybercriminals, including those involved in carding and related crimes such as romance scams and extortion. 1,235 devices (laptops, phones, routers), cash, counterfeit documents, and other assets worth millions of dollars were seized. The operation demonstrated how carding networks integrate with other crimes, including human and drug trafficking, requiring a comprehensive approach.
• Operation Contender 3.0 (2025): As part of this operation, 260 suspects involved in digital fraud, including carding, sextortion, and scams, were arrested in 14 African countries. Eighty-one infrastructure (such as servers and phishing platforms) used for attacks were shut down. This operation underscores INTERPOL's regional focus on Africa, where cybercrime, including card theft, has increased by 3,000% in some countries in recent years.
• Shutting down platforms like 16Shop (2023): INTERPOL coordinated an international investigation that led to the takedown of 16Shop, a phishing-as-a-service platform used to steal credit card data from 70,000 victims in 43 countries. The operation involved law enforcement agencies from Indonesia, Japan, the United States, and private companies such as Group-IB and Trend Micro. This demonstrates how INTERPOL is pooling its resources to combat the infrastructure of carding networks.

These operations highlight the importance of cross-border cooperation, as carding networks often use servers in one country, operators in another, and victims in a third. INTERPOL coordinates its efforts through its National Central Bureaus (NCBs) in each member country, ensuring real-time information sharing and synchronization of efforts.

2. Platforms and tools for information exchange​

Interpol provides specialized platforms and databases for the rapid exchange of intelligence, enabling law enforcement agencies to quickly respond to threats posed by carding networks. These tools help track criminals, analyze their methods, and prevent new attacks. Here are the key ones:

• Cybercrime Collaborative Platform – Operation (CCP – Operation): This platform serves as a centralized hub for coordinating global cybercrime operations. It allows member countries to discuss trends, such as the rise of phishing-as-a-service or skimming malware (such as Magecart, which attacks e-commerce websites). The platform also helps coordinate server shutdowns and the arrest of suspects.
• Cybercrime Knowledge Exchange (CKE): This is an open platform for sharing non-intelligence information between law enforcement agencies, governments, and the private sector. CKE focuses on discussing emerging carding techniques, such as the use of cryptocurrency for money laundering or the sale of stolen data on darknet markets (such as Genesis Market, which was shut down in a separate operation). The platform helps countries adapt their strategies to rapidly evolving threats.
• INTERPOL Global Databases: INTERPOL maintains databases containing information on cybercriminals, stolen data, malicious domains, and IP addresses. For example, a database of botnets such as SIMDA has helped identify the infrastructure used to distribute malware that steals card data. These databases are accessible through the secure I-24/7 network, which ensures the exchange of information around the clock.
• Command Centers: INTERPOL operates command centers in Lyon, France, and Buenos Aires, Argentina, which operate 24/7 to coordinate crisis response. For example, if a major phishing attack is detected, the center can quickly notify affected countries and organize a joint response.

These tools allow Interpol to collect and analyze vast amounts of data on carding networks, including their structure, methods, and geography. This is especially important given that cybercriminals often use anonymizing technologies such as VPNs, Tor, and cryptocurrencies.

3. Partnerships with the private sector and international organizations​

Carding networks often use commercial platforms and hosting providers, making collaboration with the private sector critical. Interpol is actively developing partnerships to obtain intelligence, technical support, and prevent attacks.

• Collaboration with technology companies:
  • Companies such as Kaspersky, Group-IB, Palo Alto Networks, and Trend Micro are providing Interpol with data on new types of malware used to steal card data. For example, Magecart attacks on e-commerce sites that inject skimmers into payment forms were detected thanks to this collaborative effort.
  • As part of the Router Cleanup Operation (2023–2025), INTERPOL and private partners removed malware from over 1 million devices, reducing data theft by 78%. This is significant because infected routers are often used to redirect traffic to phishing sites.
  • The shutdown of platforms like 16Shop was made possible by intelligence from private companies that tracked phishing kits and their distribution.
• International networks and initiatives:
  • InterCOP: A 36-nation consortium created to coordinate cybercrime prevention efforts. It helps countries share best practices and develop anti-carding strategies.
  • African Joint Operation against Cybercrime (AFJOC): A regional initiative aimed at combating cybercrime in Africa, where carding networks actively exploit weak digital infrastructure. AFJOC coordinates operations such as Serengeti and Contender.
  • Collaboration with CERT: Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) in various countries provide data on local threats, such as phishing sites or infected servers, which helps INTERPOL build a global picture.
• Training and professional development: INTERPOL organizes trainings, seminars, and programs for law enforcement agencies, particularly in developing countries. For example, in 2023, INTERPOL released the National Cybercrime Strategy Guidebook, which helps countries develop national strategies against cybercrime, including carding. In Africa, where the increase in BEC and sextortion has reached 3000% in some countries, such training is critical.

4. Technological and strategic innovations​

Interpol is actively using cutting-edge technologies and developing new approaches to combat carding networks. Here are the key aspects:

• Interpol Global Complex for Innovation (IGCI): Opened in 2015, this Singapore-based center serves as a hub for cybercrime research and development. IGCI analyzes emerging threats, such as the use of AI to automate phishing or blockchain technologies to launder money obtained through carding.
• Big Data Analysis and AI: Interpol uses analytical tools to process massive amounts of data, such as darknet transactions or phishing site logs. This allows it to identify patterns and connections between criminal groups.
• Focus on cryptocurrency: Carding networks are increasingly using cryptocurrency for money laundering. Interpol is collaborating with blockchain analysts (such as Chainalysis) to track transactions and identify wallets associated with the sale of stolen data.
• Strategy 2023–2025: As part of its global strategy, INTERPOL focuses on:
  • Reducing the global impact of cybercrime through rapid response.
  • Strengthening international cooperation.
  • Development of technologies for early detection of threats, such as new phishing platforms.

5. Challenges and Limitations​

Despite its successes, Interpol faces a number of challenges in its fight against carding networks:

• Jurisdictional barriers: Different countries have different cybercrime laws, making it difficult to arrest and extradite suspects. For example, some countries have no anti-phishing legislation.
• Speed of attacks: Cybercriminals act faster than formal Interpol processes, such as requests through the NCB.
• Encryption and anonymity: Using Tor, VPNs, and cryptocurrencies makes it harder to track.
• Growing threats in developing countries: In Africa and Asia, where digital infrastructure is poorly protected, carding networks are rapidly expanding.

To address these challenges, INTERPOL is increasing funding for regional programs such as AFJOC and investing in training local law enforcement agencies.

6. Results and Impact​

Interpol's measures have produced significant results:

• Arrest of thousands of suspects every year.
• Shutting down major phishing platforms and botnets.
• Preventing billions of dollars in financial losses.
• Reduced the number of infected devices by 78% in some operations.

These successes demonstrate that a coordinated approach bringing together law enforcement, the private sector, and international organizations is effective against transnational carding networks.

Suggestions for further study​

For a deeper understanding of the topic, I recommend:

• Read Interpol's reports on the official website (www.interpol.int), especially the sections on cybercrime.
• Review Global Cybercrime Programme materials and reports on operations such as Serengeti and Red Card.
• Review publications by Interpol partners, such as Group-IB or Kaspersky, on new threats in the field of carding.

If you have specific questions about the methods or technologies used by Interpol, or would like to see case studies, please let us know!