Cybercrime and scam compounds have emerged as a rapidly evolving and multifaceted issue across Southeast Asia and are now spreading to other localities as the sophisticated criminal networks which run them expand operations. Cyber scam operations often rely on forced and trafficked labor, misuse of emerging and innovative technologies like artificial intelligence, and cross-boundary illicit finances. The scale and transnational nature of this problem necessitates an urgent and coordinated policy response.
This project addresses the threats posed by cyber scam operations and builds capacity for the implementation of national and international legal frameworks and norms. The project is also working to elevate understanding about technological innovation and best practices that private sector actors can put into place to prevent or reduce the impact of scams and it emphasizes building cross-country and cross-sector dialogue among key stakeholders and actors alongside desk research.
It builds on the Stimson Center’s Cyber Accountability project as well as a long track record of work in the region on issues of governance, security, and development as led by Stimson’s Southeast Asia program.
Exploring insights from a regional workshop on how existing legal frameworks can be better utilized to counter online scams
March 19, 2026
Online scam criminal networks are adaptable, and cracking down on their use of satellite internet technology requires both cross-border and cross-sector coordination to be effective
January 23, 2026
Consensus is slow, but threats are fast. ICANN84 confronts the widening gap between governance ideals and operational realities
November 24, 2025
As cyber scam compounds proliferate, target countries are stepping up responses to safeguard national security and economic stability
August 11, 2025
This conference summary report highlights opportunities for collaboration through the Mekong-U.S. Partnership related to countering online scam operations
April 2, 2025
Online scam networks are leveraging satellite technology, highlighting the need for stronger enforcement and corporate responsibility
March 21, 2025
Cyber scams targeting Americans are a national security threat requiring a unified government response and coordination with allies facing similar risks.
November 26, 2024
Stimson Cyber and Southeast Asia programs convene a roundtable on the challenges posed by the proliferation of cyber scam operations across the Indo-Pacific, an evolving problem in the region and beyond
October 10, 2024