ISTANBUL

Japan saw an 8.3% increase in the number of cyber and phone scams in 2023 to 19,033 cases, the most in 10 years, data released Thursday by the National Police Agency showed. 

A record number of people linked to overseas crime rings was also identified, Kyodo News reported.

Overall crime in Japan rose for the second consecutive year in 2023 to 703,351 offenses.

Cases of telecommunications fraud rose for the third straight year, and the cost to victims jumped 19% to 44.1 billion yen ($295.3 million), according to police.

Online transaction scams more than doubled, resulting in victims losing 2.13 billion yen, up 115%.

Last year, both scam frequency and total costs hit the fourth-highest levels since 2004.

Though fewer overseas-based members of crime rings operate in Japan, their numbers abroad are growing, the police found.

Police investigations found a total of 69 overseas-based members of crime rings in Southeast Asian and other countries, the highest figure since 2019.

Identity theft cases, computer virus removal service scams and fictitious billing scams also surged, the data showed.

Sexual offenses and incidents of unsolicited indecency also rose due to expanded definitions and improved reporting environments.

Scams involving online transactions and fake technical support services are particularly prevalent, posing a danger to those conducting business or seeking help online.