Rising Challenges in a Digital World

SINGAPORE – As online crime surges and artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prevalent, the global landscape for prosecutors is shifting dramatically. Law Minister Edwin Tong highlighted these pressing issues on September 8, emphasizing that prosecutors must adapt quickly to the evolving challenges posed by AI-enabled crimes.

A Call for Innovation and Collaboration

Addressing over 450 prosecutors from around 90 nations gathered at the 30th Annual Conference of the International Association of Prosecutors in Singapore, Tong stated that a versatile and multidisciplinary approach is crucial. He urged legal professionals to embrace technological advancements and foster international partnerships to combat the increasing sophistication of cross-border crime.

The Alarming Scope of Financial Crimes

The minister pointed out the staggering amount of illicit funds flowing through the global financial system, with estimates ranging from $2 trillion to $3 trillion annually. In Singapore alone, scams cost citizens $456.4 million in the first half of 2025. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced prosecutorial practices to tackle financial fraud, including scams and money laundering.

AI: A Double-Edged Sword

While generative AI applications like ChatGPT and Copilot offer remarkable potential for productivity, they also lower the barriers for criminals. Tong highlighted how such technologies empower offenders to create convincing phishing messages or deepfake audio that can manipulate unsuspecting victims, raising serious security concerns.

Collaboration in Child Protection

In a notable operation earlier in 2025, the Singapore Police collaborated with agencies from Hong Kong, Japan, and other Southeast Asian countries to combat online child exploitation, leading to 435 arrests and the seizure of AI-generated child abuse materials. This underscores the importance of cross-border cooperation in law enforcement.

The Evolution of Prosecutorial Roles

Tong emphasized the need for prosecutors to evolve alongside technological developments. As crime becomes increasingly transnational and tech-enabled, building international networks and sharing best practices will be essential for effective law enforcement. He reinforced that collaboration can take many forms, from conferences sharing insights to mutual legal assistance treaties.

Strengthening Global Ties

In a significant step towards international collaboration, Tong signed a mutual legal assistance agreement with Kazakhstan’s Prosecutor General, a first for Singapore with a Central Asian nation. This treaty aims to enhance cooperation on crime prevention and provides a structured approach for legal assistance in criminal matters.

Conclusion: Adapting to New Realities

As the landscape of crime evolves, the role of the prosecutor is becoming more complex. Edwin Tong stressed that to adapt to this fractured global order and the intricacies of AI-fueled crime, prosecutors must not only keep pace with technology but lead the charge in reforming the criminal justice system.