FATF Flags Rising Risk of Terror Financing in Rapidly Digitalising World, Highlights Pakistan’s Role

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global watchdog on terror financing and money laundering, has raised concerns over the growing misuse of money in an increasingly digital world. It warns that funds are being diverted to support terrorism, conceal illicit earnings, and fuel activities that threaten global peace and security. To combat these threats, FATF continues to collaborate with countries worldwide to strengthen financial oversight systems.

FATF Highlights Emerging Financial Threats in New Reports

FATF has published two detailed reports in 2025, focusing on advanced tactics such as the manipulation of beneficial ownership data to shield sanctioned individuals, the misuse of virtual assets including cryptocurrencies, and the exploitation of the maritime and shipping sectors to sidestep international rules.

India Highlights Pakistan’s Role in Proliferation Financing

One of the key contributions came from India, which submitted a case study pointing to the proliferation risks posed by Pakistan’s state-owned National Development Complex—already sanctioned in multiple jurisdictions. India’s National Risk Assessment Report (2022) labels Pakistan as a high-risk state sponsor of terrorism in South Asia.

FATF Lists High-Risk Countries; India Strengthens Safeguards

FATF, which includes 40 member nations and over 200 jurisdictions, maintains a global watchlist. As of June 2025, 26 countries, including Nepal and South Africa, are under increased monitoring (‘Grey List’), while North Korea, Iran, and Myanmar remain on the ‘Blacklist’ due to severe compliance failures. India, a FATF member since 2010, continues to bolster its financial security infrastructure in line with evolving threats.

Digital Platforms, Gaming Apps Among New Terror Tools

The FATF reports identify modern threats such as the misuse of virtual currencies, online gaming platforms, and e-commerce to finance terrorism and bypass sanctions. Traditional systems like hawala are now being used in combination with crowdfunding, mobile money, and VPNs to support lone-wolf attacks. These findings emphasize the urgent need for international regulation of digital financial tools and social media.

India Recognized for Strong Counter-Proliferation Efforts

India has been commended by FATF for its strong performance in tackling proliferation financing. FATF called for deeper international cooperation and stricter oversight of emerging financial technologies to stay ahead of evolving terror finance tactics.

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