Stay informed with local insights

We're dedicated to covering important issues affecting our local area. One area of focus is the rise of criminal groups using platforms like Kakaotalk. Read our in-depth reports and investigations into these activities, helping to keep our community informed and safe. Share your insights and help us uncover the truth, together at Community Group News.

In 2025, Quennsland police and Federal authorities and the KakaoTalk platform have reported a significant rise in organized criminal groups utilizing the app's Open Chat and messaging features for identity theft, drug distribution, and sexual exploitation.
Criminal Use of KakaoTalk in 2025
Identity Theft & Scams: In the first half of 2025, 66.8% of KakaoTalk account restrictions were due to scams and impersonation. Criminal groups increasingly use AI-driven deepfakes and advanced phishing to steal personal information. Vulnerabilities in Open Chat have previously allowed users to exploit and trade the personal data of users.
Drug Trafficking: Distribution of illegal drugs via social media, including KakaoTalk, has surged, particularly among people in their teens to 40s. By late 2025, drug offenders in their 20s and 40s accounted for over 60% of total cases.
Sexual Exploitation: Between November 2024 and October 2025, police apprehended 11 individuals for cybersexual violence, with people in their 40s making up nearly 62% of suspects. Organized groups use chat rooms to arrange illegal prostitution and "sex purchase" meetings, sometimes involving minors.
Organized Crime Migration: Traditional gangs are rapidly migrating to cyberspace. In 2025, 56.3% of organized crime arrests were tied to digital crimes like romance scams and voice phishing rather than physical violence.
Institutional Responses
Kakao's Safety Measures: In 2025, Kakao announced strict bans for users involved in child exploitation or prostitution-related chats.
Joint Investigation Headquarters: A new comprehensive control tower involving eight government entities, including the National Intelligence Service and the prosecution, was launched in late 2025 to combat the rise in social media drug trafficking.
Police Crackdowns: Nationwide operations through 2025 targeted sophisticated international crime rings involved in identity theft and illicit trade across borders.
For ongoing safety information, users can refer to the official KakaoTalk Safety Guide.