The preliminary version of the latest Annual Report on Internal Security (RASI) reveals a dramatic increase in money laundering investigations, with a total of 1,844 initiated in 2024, compared to just 522 in 2019.

The increase in inquiries aligns with broader European trends, as countries intensify measures against financial crimes as part of their anti-corruption initiatives.

The rise in money laundering cases has been closely linked to internet fraud, with many illicit activities occurring outside of Portugal before generating 'dirty' money.

In addition to money laundering, there has been a notable rise in related financial crimes, including a 33% increase in fraudulent insolvency and a 32% rise in subsidy fraud and embezzlement.

Criminals are increasingly using digital environments to commit these crimes, employing methods such as cryptocurrency fraud and investment scams.

This surge indicates a tripling of investigations over the past five years, confirming trends observed in previous years.