Myanmar proposes Anti-Online Fraud Bill targeting digital currency scams
A new proposed law reflects concern over scam compounds linked to crypto fraud and human trafficking, where organised networks exploit people for online scams.
Myanmar’s military-backed authorities have proposed a new Anti-Online Fraud Bill to tackle digital currency scams and online fraud networks operating in the country.
The draft legislation would introduce severe penalties for offences linked to online fraud and ‘digital currency fraud’. Reports citing the text say those convicted could face prison sentences ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment.
The bill also proposes the death penalty in the most serious cases involving online scam centres, particularly where people are unlawfully detained, violently coerced or forced into scam operations. AFP, cited by Malay Mail, reported that the proposed penalty would apply to those who detain or violently coerce victims into working in online scam centres.
The proposal reflects growing pressure on Myanmar over large scam compounds where trafficked people have reportedly been forced into online fraud schemes, including romance and cryptocurrency scams. International scrutiny has intensified as cyber-fraud networks across Southeast Asia continue to target victims globally.
The bill comes amid wider regional action against transnational scam networks. China has pursued criminal cases linked to Myanmar-based fraud syndicates, while international organisations and law enforcement agencies have warned that online scam compounds combine cybercrime, financial fraud and human trafficking.
Why does it matter?
The proposed bill shows how governments are escalating responses to transnational online fraud networks, particularly where crypto scams overlap with human trafficking and forced labour in scam compounds. Myanmar’s approach would mark a shift towards extreme punitive measures, raising both enforcement and human rights concerns, while highlighting how digital fraud has become a cross-border security issue involving organised crime, financial losses and exploitation of vulnerable people.
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