A new form of human trafficking is rapidly expanding across Myanmar and parts of Southeast Asia. Forced labor in online scam centers. Behind many messages is a human being, trafficked and trapped in a cycle of abuse. We look at the impact and the hidden crisis of human trafficking in Myanmar scam centers.

Modern slavery in the digital age

Myanmar is a hotspot for criminal syndicates operating scam centers. They lure vulnerable people from across the region – and increasingly from as far away as Africa and South America – with false promises of legitimate employment. Traffickers confiscate their documents and force them to work under threat of violence.

Traffickers train victims to run elaborate romance scams, investment cons, and phishing operations. Refusal to comply often leads to brutal punishment: beatings, starvation, electric shocks, and threats of being sold to even harsher compounds. This is fraud but it’s so much more. Traffickers power their operations with deception and maintain control through fear.

A growing network of exploitation

Scam centers use satellite communications systems such as Starlink to bypass local internet restrictions and hide from law enforcement. Traffickers then expand their global reach, targeting individuals from every continent.

The scale is staggering but tens of thousands are believed to be trapped in these compounds. Governments and NGOs are tracking and exposing these operations, but the response has been slow. Authorities often treat escapees as criminals rather than the victims they are.

What can be done to fight Myanmar scam centers?

Ending this abuse starts with recognition and action. Here’s how we can fight back:

• Support rescue operations led by trusted organisations who are working on the ground to free and rehabilitate survivors.
• Pressure governments and tech providers to cut off infrastructure and financial tools used by trafficking networks, including communications services like Starlink when they are knowingly used to support criminal activity.
• Raise awareness: Share survivor stories and credible news sources to shine a light on these hidden crimes.
• Donate to anti-trafficking organisations such as Not For Sale, so we can continue building systemic change and providing long-term support for survivors.

Hope is stronger than fear

At Not For Sale, we believe every person deserves freedom, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive. By understanding the dark realities behind Myanmar’s scam centers, we can take collective action to dismantle the systems that enable modern slavery.

•  Support Not For Sale and help put an end to exploitation.