Pause. Verify. Seek advice.

The more and more we learn about the large scam operations concentrated in remote conflict zones of Southeast Asia, the more we can see that it is more than a cluster or two of scam compounds. It's an entire industry. And it crosses borders. To bring down a border-crossing industry requires taking an industry-approach and collaborating together.

In November, we noticed a surge in requests from people who raised a new type of concern: they transferred money to individuals inside scam compounds — sometimes USD 15,000 to USD 30,000 — after being persuaded that the funds were needed for “ransom,” “release fees,” or urgent rescue of a victim. People have reported finding their scammer trapped in a compound and in need of help.

If you notice a similar request, remember to:

• Pause.

• Verify.

• Seek advice.

The cases that we have seen reflect a difficult truth that is often missing from public conversations: not everyone working inside a scam compound is a victim of forced labour. The reality is far more layered.

Inside these compounds are:

• People who were trafficked or deceived and cannot leave.

• People who entered willingly and later became trapped by threats or debt.

• People working under coercion or pressure.

• And people who knowingly participate in scams and have no intention of stopping.

When these different realities overlap, the public becomes even more vulnerable. Requests for money may sound desperate or sympathetic, but some are extensions of ongoing scam operations, designed to exploit trust and empathy.

Coverage from outside high-risk zones often presents a single narrative — that everyone inside is trafficked. But field experience shows a spectrum. A more accurate understanding helps protect genuine victims and prevents further exploitation of the public.

If someone contacts you claiming to be inside a compound and asks for money — for ransom, transport, food, documents, or any kind of “escape fee” — please do not send any funds. We appreciate you want to help, and we can help them as long as we stay united in this fight together. You will want to protect yourself first.

Remember to always:

• Pause.

• Verify.

• Seek advice.

Protecting genuine victims requires clarity, not confusion. Recognizing the complexity of these environments is the first step. You won't solve the issue by sending a cash payment to one person claiming to be inside a scam compound. You must pause, verify, and seek advice.

At GASO, we continue to raise awareness on these issues through educational content sharing and assist victims in restoring their normal lives after the incident. If you are in need of assistance with a scam, please start a new live chat on our website. Due to high volume of requests, it may take us more time to respond. We are a volunteer-run nonprofit organization, and we appreciate your patience.

For more news, we welcome you to follow us on the social media channels that you will find at the bottom of this page.