Europol warns AI boosts organized crime across Europe

In the Netherlands, the European Union’s law enforcement agency, Europol, delivered a sobering warning regarding the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on organized crime, following the release of the EU Serious and Organized Crime Threat Assessment 2025 report. This report, compiled from data provided by police across the EU, highlighted how the combination of AI and traditional criminal activities is eroding the foundations of societies within the 27-nation bloc. With the rise of sophisticated cybercrimes targeting governments, businesses, and individuals, acts like drug trafficking, money laundering, and cyber attacks are more prevalent and destructive than ever. This development is alarming, as many of these offenses generate illicit proceeds, exacerbate violence, and bolster corruption, threatening the rule of law throughout Europe. The rise of AI has particularly influenced the availability of child sexual abuse material online, complicating efforts to analyze relevant imagery and identify potential offenders. Additionally, tools such as AI-powered voice cloning and deepfake videos have facilitated new forms of fraud, extortion, and identity theft. Police agencies are increasingly aware of the intertwining roles of state-sponsored actors and criminal enterprises, as geopolitical tensions prompt countries to exploit organized crime for strategic advantages. Specific instances, like the cyberattack on a Polish hospital, illustrate the real-world consequences, leaving public institutions vulnerable and disrupted. As Europol's Executive Director Catherine De Bolle emphasized, nations must address these security challenges urgently, embedding protective measures in their broader policies. The agency's call to action comes as the European Commission prepares to enhance its internal security strategy, including plans to increase Europol's staffing significantly over the coming years.