Report Says California Targeted By Cyber-Gangs

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — International criminal enterprises follow the money, and a new report says they are increasingly focusing on California because of its wealth and innovation.

Aside from long-time trafficking in drugs, guns and people, the report being released today by California Attorney General Kamala Harris says criminals are turning to cybercrime to target businesses and financial institutions.

It calls California the top target in the nation for organizations that often operate from safe havens in Eastern Europe, Africa and China. It also estimates that more than $30 billion is laundered through California businesses each year.

Harris says it is the first comprehensive report outlining the effects of transnational criminal organizations on Californians and businesses in the state. She is set to formally release the report during a news conference in Los Angeles.