Virtual Asset Crimes Discussed at Intersec 2025

The growing threat of virtual asset-enabled crime, including money laundering and illicit fund transfers, was a focal point of discussions at the inaugural Intersec 2025 Policing Conference, which concludes today at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

The conference, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, provided a vital platform to explore the challenges and opportunities stemming from the rapid adoption of digital currencies in the UAE.

During a panel discussion on combating crypto-enabled crime, Nicholas McNicholas, Senior Director of Regulatory Enablement and Enforcement at the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), said:
“The rise of virtual assets has transformed financial crime globally, providing criminals with new avenues to move illicit funds and complicating anti-money laundering efforts. In the Middle East, Dubai’s position as a global financial hub and rapid digital asset adoption has heightened the need for balancing innovation with strict regulatory compliance to maintain Dubai’s reputation as a safe and dynamic market for digital finance.”

The fast-paced evolution of virtual assets and financial technologies has presented regulators with unprecedented challenges, necessitating adaptive policies and international cooperation. Experts at the conference emphasized the importance of leveraging public-private partnerships and advanced technologies like AI to foster innovation while reinforcing anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) measures.

The two-day Policing Conference, a new feature at Intersec 2025, featured over 50 speakers, including senior law enforcement officials from the Abu Dhabi Police, INTERPOL, the Metropolitan Police, and the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit. Topics of discussion included policing in a digital era, strategic automation, drone operations, quantum-led crime, the future of road safety, and proactive policing strategies.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Intersec organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East, commented:
“The Policing Conference at Intersec 2025 highlights the importance of global collaboration in addressing the evolving challenges of law enforcement. This platform enables industry leaders to share knowledge, explore innovative solutions, and build partnerships to secure the future of policing.”

As the world’s largest event dedicated to security, safety, and fire protection, Intersec 2025 features 1,200 exhibitors from 61 countries and welcomes 52,000 global trade visitors. The Homeland Security & Policing sector sees participation from leading brands such as Johnson Controls, PwC, Dell, Intel, Bosch, Hikvision, Avigilon, Uniview, Hanwha Vision, Axis, HID, Salto, and Honeywell.

Under the theme ‘Mapping the Future of Security, Safety, and Fire Protection’, the event showcases cutting-edge technologies and critical solutions across five key sectors: Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, Cyber Security, and Homeland Security & Policing.