SYNOPSIS
In the Hell of Scam Centers
This film is a gripping, in-depth investigation into the multi-billion-dollar scam centers thriving across Southeast Asia, where hundreds of thousands of men and women are held captive by criminal syndicates and forced to carry out online scams.
These captives come from Asia, Africa, and Europe, lured through social media by the promise of lucrative careers in tech. Educated and multilingual, they are specifically targeted for their computer literacy. However, the moment they arrive, the dream turns into a nightmare: violent Chinese syndicates immediately seize their passports and cut them off from the world.
Imprisoned in heavily guarded compounds, they are forced to work exhausting shifts, seven days a week, under the constant threat of physical abuse and torture. Their job is to operate thousands of fake profiles, deploying sophisticated psychological and romantic manipulation to ensnare global « clients ». Once trust and an emotional bond have been established, the victims are drawn into fraudulent investment and cryptocurrency schemes designed to systematically drain their bank accounts.
INFO:
Theme: Current Affairs/Investigations
Format: 52′
Original Title: In the Hell of Scam Centers
Director(s): Constantin Simon & Ali Watanu
Broadcaster: LCP
Language: FR
Year of Production: 2026
Produced By: Premières Lignes & Zebra Prod
