Thailand and the United States are collaborating on new information-sharing systems to combat scam gangs and human trafficking networks operating across Southeast Asia's borderlands, strengthening their alliance in the process.

"The convergence of Thai and U.S. interests in halting these networks may nonetheless provide another platform for strengthening bilateral cooperation and maintaining the two countries' strong defense ties," wrote Jacob Zenn, editor of Terrorism Monitor and Adjunct Assistant Professor in Georgetown University's Security Studies Program.

Thailand is surrounded by large-scale scam networks operating just across its borders in several neighboring countries including Cambodia. Working from large compounds and relying on workers who have often been trafficked and held against their will, these networks are run by organized criminal groups. Some are also involved in smuggling weapons, drugs and other illegal goods.

Their proceeds from scam operations alone—which defraud unsuspecting victims around the world, including in the United States—have been estimated in the billions of dollars. In April, Thai law enforcement authorities arrested two foreign nationals alleged to have been operating a scam compound in neighboring Myanmar. Thai officials said the suspects were forcing trafficked individuals to participate in cryptocurrency scams.

"This case highlights that Thailand has become both a transit route and a law enforcement hub for disrupting drug trafficking and other criminal networks operating across Southeast Asian borderlands," Zenn wrote.

"This case occurred amid broader Thai and U.S. efforts to disrupt scam operations. In early May, the Thai authorities announced that the two partner countries were preparing a new 'Shield' system for real-time information sharing and financial tracking to combat human trafficking and scam call centers."

Zenn noted that many scam centers are located in conflict zones, making it difficult for governments and law enforcement agencies in those countries to launch operations against them. Consequently, Thailand has stepped up measures to pressure the criminal groups and shut down their operations.

"Bangkok is increasingly concerned that Thailand could be used as a corridor for trafficked workers, criminal financial operations and scam gangs. Beyond its legal and moral obligations, Thailand also faces reputational risks that could affect its tourism industry," Zenn wrote.