Risky Bulletin Srsly Risky Biz: China Fights Scam Compounds … For China
Jan 15, 2026
Tom Uren, a policy and intelligence editor specializing in cybersecurity, joins Amberleigh Jack to discuss China's reactive measures against scam compounds targeting its citizens. They explore how media-driven responses may inadvertently shift scams elsewhere. Tom shares viral rescue stories that forced rapid Chinese intervention and examines the role of disruptive cyber operations in the US's capture of Nicolás Maduro. The duo also delves into potential international collaborations to combat these threats.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
China's Reactive Crackdown Dynamic
- China acts against scam compounds only when domestic outrage forces it to respond quickly.
- That tactical, reactive approach means long-term industry suppression is unlikely.
Three-Day Recovery Of A Captive Actor
- A Chinese actor lured to Thailand was recovered from a scam compound within three days after his girlfriend publicised his story.
- Tom Uren uses this example to show China can act very fast for high-profile cases.
Enforcement Shapes Criminal Markets
- China's enforcement focuses on compounds targeting Chinese citizens and may push the industry to target foreigners instead.
- That geographic and victim focus reshapes criminal operations rather than eliminating them.