March 31, 2026
By Shubhii Verma
On March 26, 2026, the UK government announced sanctions against Xinbi, an online Chinese-language platform accused of helping large scam networks run cryptocurrency-based fraud across Southeast Asia. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) called Xinbi a key part of the hidden system that supports online scams. This is the first time any country has officially taken action against this marketplace.
At the same time, UK authorities also targeted people and companies linked to #8 Park in Cambodia, believed to be the country’s largest scam center. Reports suggest that up to 20,000 trafficked workers may be forced to run fraud schemes from this location.
Xinbi works like a middleman or escrow service for criminals. It allows buyers and sellers in illegal markets to safely exchange money without trusting each other directly. The platform is mainly accessed through messaging apps and links from a simple public website. It supports many illegal activities, including money laundering, unlicensed crypto trading, selling stolen personal data, and providing tools and services needed to run scam operations.
According to blockchain research from Chainalysis, Xinbi processed more than $19.9 billion in cryptocurrency transactions between 2021 and 2025. Many of these funds were linked to romance scams, fake investment schemes, and “pig butchering” frauds. Xinbi is also connected to other underground platforms and brokers that help scammers move and hide stolen money.
The sanctions also affect Legend Innovation Co., the company behind #8 Park, and its director Eang Soklim. Some individuals connected to the Prince Group were also included. The UK used its Global Human Rights sanctions rules, saying these groups benefit from serious human rights abuses linked to scam centers.
Blockchain investigators like Elliptic helped uncover how Xinbi supports scam operations. Even after a 2025 crackdown removed some of its communication channels, the platform quickly adapted and continued operating.
By freezing assets and blocking business with these groups, the UK hopes to cut off the financial support that keeps these scam networks running and protect victims around the world.
