Iris_Reed
--
US Senator Urges Elon Musk to Block Starlink Use in Southeast Asia Scam Networks
Senator Maggie Hassan has formally requested that Elon Musk restrict Starlink access in regions of Southeast Asia where criminal syndicates are using the satellite internet service to run online scam operations targeting Americans.
What’s Happening:
• Criminal groups in Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia are reportedly using Starlink to operate large-scale fraud schemes
• UN and U.S. Treasury reports confirm the growing scope of these operations
• A Wired investigation identified over 400 Starlink devices being used in scam compounds in Myanmar alone
The Stakes:
• Estimated global losses tied to these Southeast Asian scam networks: $43.8 billion
• In the U.S. alone: $3.5 billion in losses in 2023
• Victims include not only those being scammed, but also trafficked workers forced to run these operations
Why Starlink?
Its portability, encryption, and lack of centralized oversight make it a prime tool for networks trying to evade local telecom controls.
What’s Being Asked:
Senator Hassan wants SpaceX to outline how it’s addressing misuse of Starlink, and to work with global law enforcement to prevent further exploitation.
—
This issue highlights the dark side of decentralized tech when abused by organized crime. Do you think Starlink should restrict access in certain regions? Let’s discuss below.#ETHReclaims3800 #CryptoScamSurge #BNBATH #ETHCorporateReserves
Senator Maggie Hassan has formally requested that Elon Musk restrict Starlink access in regions of Southeast Asia where criminal syndicates are using the satellite internet service to run online scam operations targeting Americans.
What’s Happening:
• Criminal groups in Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia are reportedly using Starlink to operate large-scale fraud schemes
• UN and U.S. Treasury reports confirm the growing scope of these operations
• A Wired investigation identified over 400 Starlink devices being used in scam compounds in Myanmar alone
The Stakes:
• Estimated global losses tied to these Southeast Asian scam networks: $43.8 billion
• In the U.S. alone: $3.5 billion in losses in 2023
• Victims include not only those being scammed, but also trafficked workers forced to run these operations
Why Starlink?
Its portability, encryption, and lack of centralized oversight make it a prime tool for networks trying to evade local telecom controls.
What’s Being Asked:
Senator Hassan wants SpaceX to outline how it’s addressing misuse of Starlink, and to work with global law enforcement to prevent further exploitation.
—
This issue highlights the dark side of decentralized tech when abused by organized crime. Do you think Starlink should restrict access in certain regions? Let’s discuss below.#ETHReclaims3800 #CryptoScamSurge #BNBATH #ETHCorporateReserves
Disclaimer: Includes third-party opinions. No financial advice. May include sponsored content. See T&Cs.
