Starlink internet users in Myanmar’s border areas, including Myawaddy, Shwe Kokko, and Wawlay, began experiencing service disruptions on the morning of October 16, according to local users and service providers.
Users reported that connections were suddenly cut off across several areas, marking the first widespread outage of its kind. A Starlink service provider in Myawaddy said customers could no longer change device locations or ID numbers to restore service, resulting in a near-total shutdown.
“This time, most users in Myawaddy are affected, including Shwe Kokko and Wawlay. Not all areas are completely cut off yet. Some still have access. But it’s uncertain how things will go in the next few days. We haven’t heard of any issues in the Payathonzu area yet,” the provider said.
Some users also received official Starlink email notifications stating: “We have detected unusual activity on your account. Access will be temporarily suspended while we investigate.”
Tech experts believe the disruption could be linked to fraud-related investigations, as Starlink systems are reportedly under scrutiny for possible connections with online scam networks operating along the Myanmar border. However, U.S. authorities have not made any official statements regarding Starlink’s involvement.
Residents in Payathonzu, another area heavily reliant on Starlink internet, said they have not yet experienced interruptions but are growing concerned after hearing about the Myawaddy shutdown.
“The news is spreading here in Payathonzu too, but so far our internet is still working fine and the speed hasn’t dropped. Still, everyone’s worried after hearing about the cutoffs,” said a resident.
Starlink has no official authorization to operate in Myanmar, but since early this year, many residents in border regions have installed devices smuggled from Thailand to access the service.
Tech experts warn that the disruptions could pose serious challenges for resistance groups and civilians in liberated areas who depend on Starlink for communication. They also fear that information blackouts could allow the military junta to conceal further human rights abuses.
The U.S. Congressional Joint Committee recently told AFP that an investigation is underway into Starlink’s possible role in online scam operations along the Thai–Myanmar border, fueling concerns that more internet restrictions may follow in the region.
