Bali Police Uncover Organized Cyber-Scam Operation Targeting Tourists
Bali, Indonesia – The Bali Police have made significant strides in combating cybercrime by uncovering and dismantling an organized cyber-scam operation that has purportedly targeted American citizens. This operation, described by authorities as a "Love Scam," led to the arrest and detention of 38 individuals across various towns on the island.
The cybercrime unit, which has been in operation since November 2023, utilized misleading online profiles featuring fake women to lure victims into false romantic relationships. From these fabricated connections, the scammers would extort money under various pretenses.
Details of the Operation
Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya and Kombes Pol Ranefli Dian Candra, the Director of Cyber Polda Bali, confirmed the details during a recent press conference. The police operation began on June 9, 2025, with initial raids carried out at approximately 1 a.m. on Nusa Kambangan Street. After confirming illegal activities, police executed a strategic ambush at 9 a.m., resulting in the arrest of 38 suspects spread across four different crime scenes.
“During the operation, nine suspects were arrested at the first location, six at the second, eight at the third, and six at the fourth,” Adityajaya elaborated. The raid also resulted in the seizure of 82 cellphones and 47 computers, which were allegedly used in the execution of these scams.
Authorities believe that the network is being orchestrated by an individual operating from Cambodia, who is currently known by the initials VV.
Recruitment and Operation Tactics
The police revealed that the suspects confessed to being recruited under the guise of legitimate telemarketing jobs. Promised salaries of USD 200 per month along with commissions payable in cryptocurrency for each valid piece of data gathered on potential victims, many participants believed they were engaging in legal employment.
These recruits were trained to find and collect personal data from American foreigners via chat platforms and fraudulent links. Adityajaya indicated that the organized crime group’s recruiters worked to forge a deep connection with victims, which often included persuading them to move discussions from one platform to another to exploit personal information.
Legal Consequences and International Implications
The individuals arrested are facing serious legal repercussions, with potential prison sentences of up to 12 years if convicted. They are charged under Article 35 of Article 51, paragraph (1), of Law Number 11 of 2008, as amended by Law Number 1 of 2024 concerning Information and Electronic Transactions, along with Article 55 of the Criminal Code.
Director of Cyber Polda Bali, Kombes Pol Ranefli Dian Candra, emphasized that while this operation is a significant success, it is not an isolated incident. “These operators are interconnected, with networks extending across Indonesia, Cambodia, and the United States,” he stated.
Awareness and Safety Measures for Internet Users
Despite the success of the Bali Police in apprehending these scammers, experts warn that many similar cybercrime groups remain active online. Authorities and cybersecurity officials urge internet users to stay vigilant and remain aware of the warning signs of scams, especially those utilizing romantic deception.
The Australian eSafety Commissioner has advised individuals to be cautious of profiles that appear unrealistic or too good to be true, to question the authenticity of online interactions, and to be vigilant about any rapid requests to shift the conversation to different platforms.
As Bali continues to attract international visitors, authorities are working hard to ensure the safety of tourists, reinforcing the importance of awareness around online scams to prevent potential victimization in the digital realm.
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