Myanmar proposes tougher penalties for crypto scams

• Myanmar's military-backed government has proposed life sentences for digital currency fraud.
• The draft law also allows the death penalty for serious crimes linked to online scam centres.
• The government said the bill aims to combat online fraud and protect national security.

Myanmar's military-backed government has proposed a law that would impose life sentences for people convicted of digital currency fraud.

The draft Anti-Online Fraud Bill also includes the death penalty for people who use violence or coercion that leads to the death of victims forced to work in online scam centres.

The bill states that online fraud has become a threat to Myanmar's sovereignty and national stability.

The proposed law would also create new measures to investigate scam networks, freeze assets and strengthen cooperation with foreign authorities.

The legislation is expected to be considered by Myanmar's parliament before becoming law.

Authorities across Southeast Asia have increased efforts to shut down scam compounds linked to cryptocurrency fraud, human trafficking and organised crime.

Online scam centres in Myanmar have been linked to investment scams, romance scams and other fraud schemes that have targeted victims around the world.