Payment Fraud Emerges as Global Security Threat, Impacting Millions Weekly

The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) reports that over half of the global population is targeted by payment scams each week, with authorised payment fraud (APP) now classified as a significant global security threat. In 2025, losses from APP fraud reached an estimated £329 billion, with criminals profiting at levels comparable to the illicit drug trade. The report highlights a 54% increase in fraud-related Interpol notices since 2024. APP fraud disproportionately affects low and middle-income countries, risking financial inclusion gains. In the UK, two-thirds of APP fraud schemes originate overseas, prompting calls for coordinated international responses. UK Finance reported that £1.28 billion was stolen in the UK last year due to payment fraud, with social media platforms being a major vector for these scams. The report urges tech firms to take stronger action against fraudulent advertising practices.

Key Points: • Over half of the global population targeted weekly by payment scams. • Estimated global losses from APP fraud reached £329 billion in 2025. • UK Finance reported £1.28 billion stolen in the UK last year due to payment fraud.