BRICS Countries To Coordinate Action Against Cross-Border Scam Networks

The 18th BRICS Summit is underway in New Delhi, with leaders of member countries meeting for the two-day gathering hosted by India on September 12-13, 2026.

BRICS countries have expressed serious concern over the proliferation of organised scam networks, including cross-border fraud operations and so-called scam compounds, and have called for coordinated international action to dismantle such networks and trace illicit funds.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the New Delhi Declaration highlighted how organised scam networks are exploiting digital technologies and payment systems to carry out large-scale fraud, and target individuals in vulnerable situations. It also raised concerns over the use of emerging financial channels for such activities.

How Are Scam Networks Exploiting Financial Systems?

The declaration said these networks are exploiting digital technologies, payment systems, and individuals in vulnerable situations to carry out large-scale fraud. It also recognised that illicit financial flows, money laundering, illegal virtual asset flows, and financial fraud linked to organised crime can have an adverse impact on economic stability and the integrity of the international financial system.

The declaration said, “We underline the importance of coordinated international action to dismantle these illegal networks, trace and recover criminal proceeds, protect victims,” and prevent the misuse of financial institutions and emerging payment methods for large-scale fraud.

It also highlighted concerns over the illicit use of virtual assets and violations of domestic regulatory frameworks, saying these activities may affect economic stability, sustainable development, and the integrity of the international financial system.

What Action Have BRICS Countries Called For?

The BRICS countries stressed on the need for stronger cross-border cooperation among customs authorities, financial intelligence units, law enforcement agencies, tax authorities, and supervisory bodies. The declaration also called for cooperation involving telecommunication providers and technology platforms.

According to the declaration, improved information-sharing, risk-based approaches, data analytics, and capacity-building can help authorities identify, detect and disrupt money laundering schemes. These efforts would cover schemes involving both goods and services, including those exploiting invoicing practices, professional services, and cross-border contractual arrangements.

The declaration further said, “We encourage enhanced cooperation in strengthening digital financial security, including prevention of fraud in cross-border payment systems.”

The BRICS countries' call for greater cooperation covers the movement of illicit funds across jurisdictions, the misuse of payment systems and emerging financial channels, and efforts to prevent financial institutions from being exploited for large-scale fraud.