Myanmar Parliament Approves Anti-Online Scam Legislation

The bill, approved on July 28 following reconciliation between the lower and upper chambers, addresses the rampant rise of organized online crime. While the final text remains unpublished, the May draft proposed life imprisonment and even the death penalty for cases involving violence, torture, or death. Lawmaker Aye Chan confirmed that these harsh sentencing provisions remained intact during the final legislative review.

Beyond criminalizing fraud, the law establishes a central committee and an Anti-Scam Centre to coordinate efforts between banks, telecom providers, and state agencies. These bodies gain sweeping powers to freeze accounts and seize equipment linked to illicit operations. However, Human Rights Myanmar has expressed concern that these surveillance and blocking authorities could be repurposed to suppress journalists and political opposition.

Despite the legislative push, the industry shows few signs of slowing. Satellite analysis reveals that at least 25 suspected scam sites were constructed or expanded near Myawaddy during the first half of 2026. International agencies, including the United Nations, report that criminal networks are adapting to regional raids by dispersing and utilizing smaller, more mobile operations. The effectiveness of the new law now hinges on the publication of its final rules and the willingness of authorities to target senior financial networks rather than focusing solely on low-level workers.