Digital swindles: Understanding and combating online scams in Myanmar analyzes the multifaceted aspects of online scamming, focusing on the awareness levels of Myanmar people. The research assesses the current policies in place to combat online scams, evaluating their effectiveness and identifying potential gaps, to provide insights into how individuals can respond when encountering online fraud.
By Su Su Nwal, Aung Ko Ko Myint, Su Myat Nwal
MYANMAR DIGITAL RESEARCH 24
Abstract
An increasing number of people in Myanmar have experienced different types of online scams at least once in their lifetime. Common scams include the impersonation of bank staff for unauthorized access, the use of fake accounts to borrow money from victims’ friends or relatives, and schemes persuading individuals to transfer money with the promise of a larger return. The
increased frequency of scams highlights the need for research tailored to the Myanmar context to better inform policy decisions and raise awareness among the people. This research identifies different types of online scams in Myanmar, explores reasons why people fall for scams, and seeks to better understand how individuals can detect scams and respond effectively if they have been victimized. The research also assesses the current policies in place to combat online scams, evaluates their effectiveness, identifies potential gaps and enhances public awareness by comparing legal enforcement in Myanmar to a neighbouring country, Thailand. We conducted an online survey with 302 respondents to gather data regarding their demographic information, social media usage and technological awareness, and their experience with online scamming. Based on the findings, the research presents proactive measures aimed at preventing individuals from falling victim to scams. We hope the findings significantly contribute to the ongoing discourse about online security, offering actionable information for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and educational institutions.
Keywords: digital scam, digital safety, online scams, online security, cybersafety, Myanmar
This Myanmar Digital Research paper was produced for the Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar (K4DM) initiative, with the aid of a grant from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and with support from The SecDev Foundation. Views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of either organization.
Over the next two years, over twenty papers in the Myanmar Digital Research series will have researchers within and in the Myanmar diaspora exploring how the digital world is shaping their social, political and economic crisis, bringing new insights into issues facing Myanmar citizens. See below for others available now.