The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has raised alarm over hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide who are trafficked and coerced into operating online scam networks. Ahead of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, the agency emphasized that victims forced into these criminal activities should be regarded as victims rather than perpetrators.

According to IOM, traffickers lure victims with false promises of legitimate overseas employment. Upon arrival, these individuals are often confined in scam compounds, stripped of their identity documents, and subjected to violence, threats, and debt bondage to carry out extensive online fraud schemes targeting global populations.

Scope and Impact

  • Victims endure severe abuses including torture, sexual violence, starvation, and solitary confinement.
  • Annual financial losses from scam offences in East Asia, South-East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand are estimated between $88.3 billion and $114.1 billion for 2025.
  • Scam compounds in these regions hold hundreds of thousands of trafficked workers.

IOM Director General Amy Pope stated, "People trapped in scam compounds are victims of trafficking, forced to commit crimes through violence, threats and coercion. They deserve protection, not punishment." She called for enhanced international cooperation to dismantle these criminal networks and support survivors.

IOM’s Response and Call to Action

The agency has launched a Regional Strategy Response to Trafficking in Persons for Forced Criminality in Asia and the Pacific (2026–2030), focusing on victim protection, prevention, cross-border collaboration, and disrupting trafficking operations.

Between 2022 and 2025, IOM assisted over 3,500 victims from 39 countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.

IOM urges governments to:

  • Recognize forced scam operators as trafficking victims rather than criminals.
  • Provide sustained support including protection, safe return, and reintegration.
  • Enhance victim identification and strengthen cross-border law enforcement cooperation.
  • Raise awareness on traffickers’ deceptive tactics to help potential victims recognize risks.

Rescue is only the initial step; survivors often face trauma, stigma, loss of documents, debt, and fear of prosecution, requiring comprehensive and ongoing assistance.