Starlink Accused of Aiding Fraud Networks Targeting Americans
A US senator has called on Elon Musk to block transnational crime groups in Southeast Asia from using Starlink satellite internet to carry out fraud targeting Americans. Democratic Senator Maggie Hassan made the appeal following reports that criminal networks have been using the service to support scams run from illegal compounds.
In a letter addressed to Musk, Hassan warned that Starlink is allegedly enabling scam operations run by criminal syndicates in countries like Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand. These operations have already cost Americans billions, according to the US Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.
Warnings on Internet Access in Scam Compounds
“These scams are not isolated,” Senator Hassan wrote. “Transnational criminal organisations are using scam centres across Southeast Asia to deceive Americans, often by relying on Starlink’s satellite internet services.”
Despite rules that allow SpaceX to terminate services for fraud, Hassan said Starlink continues to function in these scam zones. “SpaceX has a responsibility to block criminals from using the service to target Americans,” she added.
SpaceX has not issued any comment in response to the senator’s letter.
Southeast Asia’s Ongoing Scam Crisis
Criminal gangs in the region have trafficked hundreds of thousands of people to work in scam compounds. Many victims, especially near the Thai-Myanmar border, are forced to conduct online scams. These schemes have escalated into a major regional concern, attracting international scrutiny.
Earlier this year, Thailand cut off electricity, fuel, and internet supplies to five border regions, including Myawaddy, in an effort to disrupt scam activities. This followed the kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was abducted in Thailand and later found in Myanmar by Thai police.
The United Nations and other international bodies have raised alarms over the growing influence of these groups. Many are believed to operate with roots in China, especially in areas like Myawaddy, where enforcement remains weak.
Senator Hassan urged further accountability from tech providers like SpaceX, stating that the fight against digital fraud must include shutting off access to tools that make it possible.
with inputs from Reuters
