Macau’s overall crime rate continued to decline in 2025, with serious violent offenses remaining at low levels, even as gaming-related cases increased following changes in the legal framework, according to the Office of the Secretary for Security’s annual report.
Authorities recorded 2,255 fraud cases in 2025, down 19.5% from 2,800 in 2024. Cases involving computer or internet-related fraud fell 39.7% to 562. Illegal currency exchange offenses occurring outside casinos also dropped sharply by 66.1% to 152 cases. Online gambling cases fell to zero, compared with eight recorded in 2024.
However, gaming-related crime cases rose to 2,373, up 63% from 1,456 the previous year. Officials said the increase was largely linked to the implementation of the Law on Combating Illegal Gambling Crimes, which introduced a new offense targeting illegal currency exchange operations conducted for gambling purposes and broadened the statistical scope of gaming-related offenses.
Within gaming-related crimes, fraud cases doubled to 667, while illegal exchange operations categorized as operating unlawful currency exchange for gambling surged 429.2% to 471 cases. Theft and robbery linked to gaming activity also increased.
Despite the rise in overall gaming-related cases, serious and organized crimes connected to gambling continued to trend downward. Illegal gambling loan cases fell 23% to 194, and unlawful detention cases related to gambling dropped 40.4% to 28. Cases involving criminal groups declined 62.5% to three.
Security officials said the overall public safety environment remained stable, with Macau successfully hosting major events including the eighth Legislative Assembly election and competitions under the 15th National Games.
Looking ahead to 2026, authorities pledged to maintain heightened vigilance, strengthen risk analysis and early warning systems, and continue leveraging technology to safeguard national security and social stability while supporting the city’s long-term development.
Computer and internet-related fraud declined 39.7% year over year
