A broad international crackdown on “pig butchering” cryptocurrency scams has resulted in at least 276 arrests, the shutdown of nine scam centers, and the freezing of more than $701 million in cryptocurrency linked to money laundering, according to U.S. authorities.

The operation targeted schemes that allegedly preyed on Americans through fake investment platforms and sustained emotional manipulation, stealing millions in the process.

What happened?

According to The Hacker News, the takedown was led by Dubai Police, under the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Interior, working with the FBI and China’s Ministry of Public Security.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the scam centers were used to carry out…