Reuters: People From More Than 80 Countries Trafficked Into Asian Online Scam Centres, UN Warns

Reuters: People From More Than 80 Countries Trafficked Into Asian Online Scam Centres, UN Warns

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has warned of a sharp increase in human trafficking linked to online scam centres operating across Southeast Asia.

According to information reported by Reuters, people from more than 80 countries have been trafficked into criminal operations, particularly in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos. Victims are often recruited through fraudulent job advertisements on social media, promising attractive salaries and international employment opportunities.

After arriving, many victims have their identity documents confiscated and are forced to participate in online financial scams under threats, violence and intimidation. Some also experience sexual abuse, isolation and severe psychological trauma.

The IOM estimates that tens of thousands of people have been trafficked into these operations. Meanwhile, scam compounds across the region may employ as many as 300,000 people, although not all workers are confirmed trafficking victims.

IOM Director General Amy Pope emphasized that individuals forced to commit online fraud through coercion must be recognized as victims of trafficking rather than automatically treated as criminals.

The organization called for stronger international cooperation, improved victim identification, safe return and reintegration services, and greater public awareness of fraudulent recruitment practices.

Source: Reuters, reporting on findings from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/un-says-human-trafficking-into-asian-scam-centres-is-surging-2026-07-28/