Myanmar authorities have deactivated more than 140,000 SIM cards as part of an extensive campaign against illegal online gambling operations.
Deputy Minister U Thet Win Aung revealed that 143,409 SIM cards were deactivated between March 2025 and May 2026. They were identified as tools for distributing gambling-related promotional messages.
The figures were disclosed during a parliamentary session on June 19 and later reported by state-owned media.
Mass Messaging Activities Trigger Enforcement
Authorities identified the SIM cards through suspicious communication patterns involving the mass distribution of identical gambling advertisements.
The Ministry of Digital Development and Communications worked with telecommunications providers to detect accounts used to promote illegal online gambling. They used automated messaging systems for this detection.
Officials said monitoring systems will continue to identify and disrupt suspicious telecommunications activity linked to gambling operators.
Financial Accounts Also Targeted
Enforcement efforts extended beyond mobile communications.
Authorities suspended 1,120 SIM cards connected to illegal financial accounts used to facilitate online gambling transactions. More than 1,000 e-wallet accounts associated with gambling networks were also permanently shut down.
The measures form part of a broader strategy aimed at disrupting the financial infrastructure that supports illegal gambling operations.
Multi-Agency Cooperation Intensifies
The Myanmar Police Force has been coordinating enforcement efforts with the Ministry of Transport and Communications. It also works with the Central Bank of Myanmar since 2023.
The joint initiative focuses on identifying and removing gambling-related social media accounts and payment channels. Additionally, it targets digital platforms used to facilitate illegal betting activities.
Authorities believe targeting both communication and payment systems is essential to limiting the growth of online gambling networks.
Websites and Applications Blocked
Regulators have also increased efforts to restrict online access to gambling platforms.
Between January 2025 and April 2026, authorities blocked 102 gambling websites and mobile applications through IP-based restrictions.
The move is designed to prevent users from accessing illegal gambling services. Furthermore, it aims to limit the ability of operators to attract new customers.
Influencers and Advertisers Face Legal Action
Law enforcement agencies have expanded investigations beyond gambling operators to include individuals promoting gambling content online.
Authorities confirmed that legal action has been taken against actors and social media influencers. It also targets other individuals accused of advertising online gambling services and slot games.
Officials warned that promoting illegal gambling activities or allowing personal financial accounts to be used for gambling transactions may result in criminal penalties. As a result, citizens should avoid such activities.
Public Awareness Campaigns Continue
The Myanmar Police Force and Ministry of Information are also conducting public awareness campaigns through television broadcasts and state-owned newspapers.
The campaigns aim to educate the public about the legal and financial risks associated with online gambling. They also highlight risks related to fraud activities.
Authorities have repeatedly urged citizens not to participate in gambling promotions. They also advise not to provide financial accounts to third parties involved in illegal operations.
Focus on Regional Cooperation
Myanmar officials described the crackdown as part of a broader national effort to combat online gambling and cybercrime.
Authorities stated that cooperation with neighboring countries and international organizations will continue. This is part of efforts to dismantle gambling and fraud networks operating across borders.
The government has also proposed stricter penalties for serious online fraud offenses. This reflects growing concerns over the links between illegal gambling, cybercrime, and organized criminal activity.
