Victims of online scams are finding it increasingly difficult to speak out due to the stigmatization associated with terms like “pig butchering,” which are used to describe long-con romance fraud schemes. Interpol has launched an awareness campaign advocating for the use of the term “romance baiting” instead, in order to encourage more victims to come forward and seek justice.
These romance-baiting cybercrimes typically begin with the creation of a fake online relationship, where the target (referred to as the “pig”) is groomed and manipulated into sending money to the scammer. Once the victim has been financially drained, they are promptly “butchered” and then cut off completely, leaving them heartbroken and humiliated. Interpol emphasizes the need to move away from dehumanizing terms like “pig butchering,” as they only serve to further victimize individuals who have already been duped and exploited.
The widespread prevalence of pig butchering scams highlights the staggering financial impact they have on victims worldwide. These elaborate schemes, orchestrated by sophisticated international cybercrime networks, have resulted in billions of dollars in losses annually. Shockingly, some of these operations have been found to run call centers staffed by individuals working under forced labor conditions in countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, generating profits exceeding $60 billion over a three-year period. The pig butchering tactic has even been used in the context of geopolitical conflicts, such as the ongoing cyber battles between Russia and Ukraine.
Dr. Elisabeth Carter, an associate professor of criminology and forensic linguistics at Kingston University London, has pointed out the parallels between the tactics used by fraudsters and those employed by perpetrators of domestic abuse and coercive control. She stresses the importance of not normalizing the language of criminals, but rather using terminology that prioritizes public safety and victim support. In a statement released by Interpol, Dr. Carter underscores the critical role that language plays in shaping perceptions of cybercrime and emphasizes the need for a more victim-centered approach in addressing these issues.
The “Think Twice” campaign spearheaded by Interpol aims to combat the damaging effects of pig butchering scams and empower victims to speak out against online fraud. By raising awareness about the tactics used by cybercriminals and advocating for a shift in language towards more compassionate and supportive terms, Interpol seeks to create a safer and more inclusive environment for individuals who have fallen prey to these deceitful schemes.
In conclusion, the fight against online scams like pig butchering requires not only enhanced cybersecurity measures but also a shift in societal attitudes towards victims of these crimes. By reframing the narrative around romance baiting and encouraging a more empathetic approach to supporting those affected by cyber fraud, organizations like Interpol are taking crucial steps towards combatting this pervasive form of criminal activity and ensuring justice for all.