Human trafficking connected to online-fraud operations is expanding across parts of Southeast Asia, according to the International Organization for Migration.
The United Nations agency says tens of thousands of people have been taken to scam compounds operating in countries including Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos. Victims from more than 80 countries have reportedly been affected.
Many are recruited through misleading advertisements offering legitimate employment. After travelling to the destination, victims may have their documents confiscated and be forced to conduct online financial or relationship scams. Reports describe the use of intimidation, confinement and physical violence to compel participation.
The criminal operations create a complex challenge for authorities because trafficked individuals may initially appear to be involved in fraud. Some survivors have reportedly faced detention or prosecution for activities they say they were forced to perform.
The UN agency is urging governments to treat potential victims as trafficking survivors, improve cross-border cooperation and scrutinize suspicious overseas job offers and recruitment networks.
The issue extends beyond Southeast Asia. The compounds can target victims worldwide through internet fraud while recruiting workers internationally, making the activity both a human-rights crisis and a global cybersecurity threat.
