Japan is seeing a rise in a unique type of fraud known as the "Kani Kani Scam". Fraudsters target seafood enthusiasts with offers of high-quality crabs at a bargain price, primarily through online markets. Consumers, after transferring the payment find no crustaceans coming their way, leaving them feeling shell-shocked. Japanese authorities are on the case, urging the public to be extra cautious while buying seafood online.

The "Kani Kani Scam" has turned into a societal issue in Japan due to the seafood industry’s significance in the country's economy and cultural identity. The Japanese are known for their love of seafood, and the increased scam cases draw a severe public reaction. Further, it reflects on Japan's digital safety concerns and highlights the need for robust consumer protection laws in the realm of online shopping.

Similar types of consumer fraud occur globally, including in the US and EU, particularly with the rise of e-commerce. However, the focus may not be on seafood specifically. Adequate consumer protection and cybercrime laws, along with effective law enforcement make a significant difference in both prevention and prosecution of such frauds.