TECHNOLOGICAL GENOME OF ORGANISED CRIMES- WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO OFFENCE OF MONEY LAUNDERING

Abstract

The digital era has transformed the landscape of organized crime, expanding its operations from traditional illicit markets to complex cyber-enabled networks. This paper examines the evolution of organized crime into cybercrime, with a particular focus on cryptocurrency- related money laundering and financial fraud in India. It explores how technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and anonymizing tools that facilitate new forms of transnational criminal activity, while also analyzing the legal and institutional frameworks designed to counter them. Drawing upon major judicial decisions, including Internet and Mobile Association of India v. RBI¹ and Vishal Moral v. Directorate of Enforcement², the study highlights how Indian courts and enforcement agencies are adapting existing laws such as the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to address emerging digital threats. Through an interdisciplinary approach combining criminological theory, legal analysis, and case study review, this research underscores the urgent need for stronger regulatory oversight, international cooperation, and technological integration in anti-money laundering efforts. The findings reveal that while India has made significant progress in curbing crypto-linked crimes, sustained policy innovation and global collaboration remain essential to ensure financial security and digital integrity.