US Targets Southeast Asian Scam Networks in Major Crackdown

Sep 10, 2026

84 min

Sep 10, 2026 02:31

Southeast Asia scam gangs stealing billions face US crackdown: Treasury

## US Treasury's New Measures

The US Treasury is intensifying efforts to dismantle scam networks in Southeast Asia, which have reportedly stolen billions from American citizens. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced sanctions against Xinbi Guarantee, a financial platform accused of facilitating cyber scams and money laundering.

## Coordinated Crackdown

This action is part of a broader initiative involving the Justice Department's Scam Centre Strike Force. The force is targeting the infrastructure and digital assets of these networks, treating them as significant threats to financial security and human rights.

## Financial Impact

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network has identified nearly $13 billion in transactions linked to these scams. The scams often involve "pig-butchering" schemes, where victims are deceived into investing in fraudulent platforms. Many operations are based in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos.

## Targeting Financial Infrastructure

Xinbi Guarantee is a key target due to its role in enabling scam operators to move and conceal funds. The US is warning financial institutions against engaging with these networks, aligning with its strategy of using financial leverage against criminal organizations.

## Broader Campaign

The crackdown is part of a larger US effort involving sanctions, prosecutions, and asset seizures. The Scam Centre Strike Force has already charged individuals and seized assets linked to these operations. The US is also applying diplomatic pressure on regional governments to shut down scam compounds and prosecute those involved.

## Challenges Ahead

Despite these efforts, scam networks are adapting by relocating operations across borders. The US aims to disrupt the entire ecosystem by targeting financial channels and political protections that allow these networks to thrive. The campaign also addresses human trafficking, as many workers in scam compounds are victims themselves.

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