SpaceX has imposed strict restrictions on Starlink terminals operating outside their country of registration, sparking severe concerns over widespread internet blackouts across Myanmar’s conflict zones. Under the updated Starlink Roam policy, which takes full effect on 17 August 2026, devices will function for only 30 consecutive days internationally unless users upgrade to a Priority Plan, localize their accounts, or return the hardware. Because Starlink is not officially authorized in Myanmar, tighter enforcement has already resulted in the deactivation of over 20 percent of active terminals inside the country.
While industry sources indicate the policy aims to combat cyber-scam syndicates operating along the Thai-Myanmar border, the crackdown has indiscriminately affected civilian and humanitarian communications in regions far from these scam centers, including Magway, Sagaing, and Arakan State. In response, a coalition of 255 civil society organizations (CSOs) submitted a joint appeal to SpaceX, the United States government, and international bodies. The coalition warned against the severe unintended consequences of blanket restrictions and urged SpaceX to adopt targeted enforcement using the documented geographic coordinates of scam compounds. Furthermore, they offered to collaborate with the company to establish a verification mechanism to protect legitimate humanitarian and civilian users.