Australia, Philippines launch joint operation to combat scam call centers in Manila

The Australian Federal Police is working closely with Philippine authorities to identify Australian victims of romance scams, following the arrest of over 250 suspected cybercriminals in Manila. The operation targeted fraudulent call center operations linked to international scamming syndicates.

AFP members and Philippine law enforcement agencies searched a scam compound in Pasay City, Manila, on 3 October, 2024. Source: AFP

Key Points

• Operation Firestorm, launched by the AFP in 2024, focuses on disrupting international criminal networks that exploit Australians via romance, investment, and cryptocurrency scams.
• Philippine authorities have arrested over 190 foreign nationals and 68 Filipino nationals in connection with alleged immigration violations. The operation also resulted in the seizure of more than 300 computer towers, over 1,000 mobile phones, and thousands of SIM cards.
• The AFP continues to raise awareness about scams, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.