US DOJ Seizes Starlink Internet Terminals Used in Myanmar Cybercrime Operations

The United States Department of Justice has issued seizure warrants for Starlink satellite internet terminals allegedly used by cybercriminals operating scam compounds in Myanmar. Two US warrants and affidavits, seen by WIRED, detail how the Starlink devices provided connectivity to the scammers, who targeted US citizens in a money laundering and wire fraud operation. According to the warrants, a US magistrate judge authorized the seizure of nine Starlink terminals and two Starlink accounts allegedly used in scam compounds in Payathonzu, near Three Pagodas Pass at the Myanmar-Thai border. The linked affidavit, written by FBI investigators, claims that the Starlink devices and accounts played a substantial role in the alleged operation, which was used to target US citizens. The affidavit also states that at least 26 Starlink dishes appeared to be on the roofs of several buildings making up one scam center of several in the Three Pagodas Pass area. "This is a significant development in our efforts to disrupt and dismantle the financial networks of cybercriminals operating in Southeast Asia," said a spokesperson for the US Department of Justice. "We will continue to work with our international partners to identify and disrupt the financial flows that support these operations." The use of Starlink satellite internet terminals by cybercriminals operating scam compounds in Myanmar highlights the global nature of cybercrime and the need for international cooperation to combat it. Scam compounds in Southeast Asia have been known to rake in billions of dollars in stolen funds from victims around the world. The region has become a hub for cybercrime due to its relatively lax regulatory environment and the availability of cheap and reliable internet connectivity. The use of Starlink satellite internet terminals by cybercriminals operating in the region is a new development, and it is unclear how widespread the use of these devices is. The US Department of Justice's move to seize the Starlink terminals and accounts is seen as a significant step in disrupting the financial networks of cybercriminals operating in the region. However, experts warn that it may not be enough to completely dismantle the operations. "The use of Starlink satellite internet terminals by cybercriminals operating in Southeast Asia is a concerning development," said a cybersecurity expert. "It highlights the need for international cooperation and the development of new strategies to combat cybercrime." The current status of the operation is unclear, but it is expected that the US Department of Justice will continue to work with its international partners to identify and disrupt the financial flows that support the operations. The move to seize the Starlink terminals and accounts is seen as a significant step in disrupting the financial networks of cybercriminals operating in the region.