SpaceX Disables 2,500 Starlink Devices at Myanmar Scam Compounds

SpaceX has disabled over 2,500 Starlink satellite internet devices used by scam compounds along the Thai-Myanmar border, where thousands of trafficked individuals are forced into large-scale online fraud operations generating tens of billions of dollars annually. These compounds, often located in remote border regions with limited terrestrial internet access, use Starlink's high-speed broadband to conduct scams such as romance and investment fraud, attracting victims worldwide. Human rights groups, journalists, and lawmakers have raised concerns about the exploitation and the role of Starlink technology in enabling these syndicates. The shutdown followed Myanmar's military raid on the notorious KK Park compound, which housed thousands of Starlink dishes and over 2,000 workers held captive. SpaceX's vice president of Starlink business operations emphasized their commitment to identifying and disabling service in violation of their Acceptable Use Policy, cooperating with law enforcement globally to prevent misuse. Despite the shutdown, many scam centers remain active across the border, highlighting ongoing challenges in combating this vast criminal network.