Scams in Cambodia – Part One"

Following our article on digital security in Cambodia, where we discussed the use of social media, mobile phones, and an introduction to online scams (see the article here), it became clear that we needed to go much deeper.

As announced, we are now dedicating a full, detailed page to digital scams in Cambodia.
From the most common scam techniques to the organized crime networks operating in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, including new forms of fraud using deepfakes and fake trading platforms, this investigation aims to warn and equip you against these very real threats.

🟥 Digital Scams in Cambodia: Networks, Methods & Prevention (2025)

At the very bottom of the page, add a button that says:

“📞 Emergency Contacts – Report Scams & Human Trafficking”

When clicked, it should link to a section or page listing all the anti-scam hotlines and resources.

After exploring social media and mobile phone usage in our digital security article, it was crucial to dive deeper into a growing concern for expats and travelers: online scams.

Investment fraud, identity theft through deepfakes, romance scams, and structured scam networks — these practices have now become industrialized in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.
In this article, we’ll break down the methods used by these criminal networks, the traps to avoid, and most importantly, how to protect yourself effectively in 2025.

Part 1: Digital Scam Networks in Cambodia

Behind every online scam lies a well-structured organization, often connected to transnational crime rings operating from lawless economic zones.

Phnom Penh & Sihanoukville: The New Scam Hubs

Both Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville are now home to numerous illegal call centers run by transnational networks.
These centers exploit young people, often victims of human trafficking, lured by fake job offers and then forced, under threats, to scam Westerners online.

The Main Scam Techniques:

1. Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud (fake brokers, fake profits, "pig butchering", ghost trading apps).

2. Romance Scams through social networks, dating apps, and instant messaging.

3. Extortion using deepfakes and fake profiles, enhancing credibility and emotionally manipulating targets.

1. Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud: The Illusion of Easy Trading

These scams have become an entire industry, often nicknamed “Pig Butchering”.
The victim is “fattened up” with promises of quick profits until they’re financially “slaughtered”.

It usually starts with a friendly or flirty approach on social media or dating apps.
A person (often posing as a charming woman from Hong Kong, Singapore, or China) contacts you under a fake profile. The conversation quickly shifts to topics of business, investments, and financial freedom.

She’ll share screenshots of her “profits,” invite you to join fake yet realistic-looking trading platforms, and guide you through every step. You invest €100, and see it double to €200, then €500. Everything seems to skyrocket. It’s euphoric.
The more you “earn,” the more you reinvest. Except… it’s all fake.

When you try to withdraw your money? They’ll ask you to pay “unlocking fees” or “administrative taxes”. That’s when the extortion spiral begins.
What seemed like a golden opportunity quickly turns into a nightmare.

2. Romance Scams: Emotional Catfishing 2.0

Romantic scams aren’t new, but in 2025, they’ve become alarmingly sophisticated.
These networks create fake, attractive profiles, perfectly designed to manipulate victims psychologically.
Travel photos, luxury lifestyle posts, personal backstories — everything is scripted.

After weeks of chatting on Messenger, Telegram, or WhatsApp, the classic scenarios unfold:

• A relative hospitalized.

• An urgent project.

• A theft, an arrest, an accident.

And always the same ending: an urgent request for a wire transfer.

What makes these scams so effective? The patience of the scammers.
They build trust over weeks or even months. You feel like you have a unique connection with this person.
But on the other side of the screen? It’s a script, a team, a network.

3. Extortion through Deepfakes and Fake Profiles: The Deepnude Nightmare

The next level of these scams involves the use of deepfakes. Networks create videos of women (sometimes replicating popular influencers) in compromising situations, artificially embedding your name or face into the content.

On certain dating platforms, you might be lured in by an ultra-realistic Asian OnlyFans profile, which is, in fact, controlled by male scammers operating behind AI chatbots.

The trap closes when the “victim” is pushed to share intimate photos or videos, or is blackmailed into making payments to “protect their reputation.”

In some cases, these networks will not hesitate to directly threaten victims’ families or employers via social media if no payment is made.

A Well-Oiled Business Model:

• Recruiting young scammers under pressure.

• Pre-written scripts designed to emotionally manipulate victims.

• Use of deepfakes and fake profiles to make the scams believable.

• Goal: Extort money quickly, then vanish.

Part 2: Who’s Really Behind All This?

1. Organized Crime Networks, Often Tied to Chinese Mafia

Many of these scams are orchestrated by transnational crime syndicates, particularly from China.
These networks have invested millions into illegal call centers across Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and even Poipet (Thailand).

They exploit vulnerable individuals, sometimes in semi-slavery conditions, forcing them to execute scams in assembly-line fashion.

2. Invisible Mafia “Bosses”

Behind these operations are mafia investors, laundering money from other illicit trades (drugs, illegal gambling, prostitution).
They funnel these profits into digital scams due to their low operating costs and high returns.

3. Corrupt Local Accomplices

Local politicians, police, or businessmen often turn a blind eye in exchange for bribes.
Some networks even have connections within local administrations, making investigations extremely difficult.

4. Forced or Trapped Workers

There are documented cases of young people being lured by fake high-paying job offers, only to find themselves trapped in underground call centers, forced to scam others under threat.

📹 Documentaries and Reports Featuring Victims’ Testimonies:

Here are some key documentaries and reports that provide direct testimonies from victims, including Vietnamese nationals trapped in scam centers in Cambodia:

1. Amnesty International Mini-Documentary
   (Features reenacted testimonies, including a young Vietnamese woman, “Lisa” – alias – who was trafficked and enslaved in a scam center)
   🎥 Watch here
   This video by Amnesty International highlights the context, violence, and voices of victims coerced into scamming under torture threats.

2. USIP Webinar-Documentary
   (Live testimonies from survivors and activists addressing Vietnamese trafficking in Cambodia, including detailed accounts of a young woman recruited through a kidney-selling ad, then tortured and raped for seven months in a scam center)
   🎥 Watch here
   This report shares powerful stories from Vietnamese victims and their lawyers, revealing the trafficking networks and inhumane conditions inside scam centers.

3. Investigative Documentaries on Human Trafficking & Scam Centers
   (Complementary reports, some using reenactments to protect victims' identities)
   🎥 Watch here
   Sky News and other media dive into these scam factories, exposing recruitment methods, the violence endured, and victims’ paths through these criminal networks.

   5. Tech Developers Powering the Scam Industry

   Freelance developers or accomplices are behind the creation of fake investment platforms, deepfake interfaces, and ghost trading apps.

   These tools are incredibly realistic, often sold between mafia networks for tens of thousands of dollars.

   These scam networks now operate like fully-fledged mafia tech enterprises 2.0, with:

   • Project managers,

   • Recruitment teams,

   • Copywriters scripting scam dialogues,

   • Blackhat developers designing fraudulent platforms.

   6. The Proliferation of Illegal Casinos

   In Cambodia, particularly in Phnom Penh and even more so in Sihanoukville, the spread of casinos—often in legal grey areas—has created an ecosystem ripe for all kinds of trafficking and scams.

   Despite official legislation banning most gambling activities, the number of casinos has surpassed one hundred. Many serve as fronts for other criminal operations.

   
   Sihanoukville’s special economic zone has become a hotspot, with dozens of casinos sheltering scam centers and organized mafia networks, involving the corruption of local officials and, in some cases, tacit institutional complicity.

   7. Government Plans and Anti-Scam Operations

   The Cambodian government has initiated plans to combat human trafficking and the rise of scam centers.
   Under increasing international pressure and following several damning reports, Prime Minister Hun Manet ordered a nationwide crackdown in July 2025 against online scams, trafficking, and mafia networks.

   This directive involves:

   • National Police,

   • The Army,

   • Provincial Governors,

   • Gaming regulators,

   —with the threat of immediate dismissal for any local officials who fail to act.

   Since mid-July 2025, these operations have resulted in numerous raids in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Poipet, Kratie, and Kampong Speu, leading to over 1,000 arrests in just a few days, and the rescue of hundreds of foreign workers trapped in scam operations.

   Additionally, Cambodia has been implementing since August 2024 a “National Strategic Plan to Combat Human Trafficking (2024-2028)” under the National Committee for Counter-Trafficking (NCCT).

   
   This five-year plan includes:

   • Strengthening law enforcement,

   • Enhancing international cooperation,

   • Better victim identification and protection,

   • Stricter oversight of casinos and high-risk sectors.

   However, despite these high-profile announcements and operations, many NGOs and international observers remain highly skeptical about the long-term impact.

   
   Organizations like Amnesty International have criticized the lack of clear victim protection measures and the persistence of corruption, noting that many scam centers continue to operate undisturbed, even after raids.

   Survivors also report that some so-called “rescues” end in detention, leaving victims without legal status or support.

   Cambodia is also working with neighboring countries, especially Vietnam and Thailand, to improve border control and coordinate operations against transnational trafficking and scam networks as part of bilateral agreements for 2025.

   Summary:

   While Cambodia now has a reinforced legal framework and large-scale police operations underway, the real effectiveness and compassion towards victims remain hotly debated on the ground.

   Part 3: How to Protect Yourself from These Scams

   Scam centers in Cambodia use highly sophisticated techniques, mixing emotional manipulation, fake profiles, and threats to extort money from their victims.
   It’s essential to adopt informed behaviors and best practices to protect yourself.

   Rule #1: Be Skeptical of Anything “Too Good to Be True”

   Promises of quick and easy profits are a major red flag.
   Scammers bait you with unrealistic opportunities—whether in investments, gambling, or other “get-rich-quick” schemes.

   A love story that’s “too perfect” should also raise alarms. On social media or dating apps, be cautious of someone who becomes your “soulmate” too quickly.

   
   Scammers design flattering and emotionally seductive scenarios to make you vulnerable.

   ➡️ Always maintain a critical mindset and avoid being swept away by emotions or the lure of quick success.

   Rule #2: Verify Identities

   • Reverse image searches: When contacted by an unknown profile or photo, perform a reverse image search (Google Images, TinEye) to check if the images are stolen or belong to different people.

   • Official contacts: Always verify the official websites and contact details of companies, brokers, or organizations. Never rely solely on links sent via messaging apps or social media.
     Prefer communication through institutional and secure channels.

   Rule #3: Protect Your Data

   • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on important accounts (email, banking, social media). This adds an extra layer of security and reduces the risk of password theft.

   • Never share sensitive documents: Do not send copies of your passport, ID card, or banking information to unverified contacts or via unsecured messaging apps.
     Such data is often used for identity theft or coercion.

   Rule #4: Never Send Money to a Stranger

   Reject any money requests from unknown individuals, regardless of the story they tell you (family emergency, investment, “help” request, etc.).

   Real people don’t ask for money through Telegram, WhatsApp, Messenger, Tinder especially without proof or guarantees.

   Always discuss financial transfers with trusted friends or professionals before sending any money.

   Rule #5: Raise Awareness Around You

   Talk about these scams with family, friends, and colleagues to build a collective awareness network.

   Scam networks thrive on isolation and ignorance.
   The more people are informed, the less power these criminal organizations hold.

   Conclusion

   Cambodia is a beautiful and vibrant country, but beneath this image lies a network of highly organized digital scams, mainly operating in cities like Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.
   These networks blend fake identities, emotional manipulation, and modern technologies (deepfakes, fake profiles) to trap their victims.

   To protect yourself effectively, you must stay vigilant, informed, and critical of online offers and relationships.
   Being cautious with personal and financial data, and spreading awareness within your community, are essential tools to safeguard your security and peace of mind.

   FAQ – Scams in Cambodia: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

   1. What are the most common scams in Cambodia?

   The most common scams include:

   • Phishing through fake emails or fraudulent websites.

   • Identity theft to access your bank account.

   • Investment scams involving fake opportunities.

   • Credit card fraud through theft or cloning.

   • CEO fraud (scammers impersonate company executives to trick employees into transferring money).

   2. How can I recognize a phishing email?

   A fraudulent email (or phishing attempt) often includes:

   • Spelling and grammar mistakes.

   • A suspicious sender address.

   • Links to fraudulent websites.

   • An urgent and fake request for confidential information (like your bank details or passwords).

   3. What are the risks of identity theft?

   If your identity is stolen, scammers can:

   • Make purchases using your credit card.

   • Access your bank account.

   • Send fraudulent emails to your contacts.

   • Create fake administrative records under your name.

   4. What should I do if I’ve been scammed or a victim of identity theft?

   • Block your credit card immediately.

   • Change all your passwords.

   • File a police report with local authorities.

   • Report the incident to your embassy or on anti-scam platforms.

   • Notify your bank to freeze or monitor your bank account.

   5. How can I avoid falling for phishing scams?

   • Never click on links in suspicious emails.

   • Never share your personal information or bank details via email.

   • Always verify the authenticity of websites before entering confidential data.

   • Use antivirus software to detect fraudulent activities.

   • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all important accounts.

   6. What should I do if I receive spam or a phishing email?

   • Never reply.

   • Do not click on any links.

   • Mark it as spam.

   • Report it to your email provider and, if possible, to the relevant anti-scam authorities.

   7. Do scammers impersonate official organizations?

   Yes, many scammers use identity spoofing techniques to impersonate:

   • Banks.

   • Embassies.

   • Charity organizations (with fake donation requests).

   This is a classic scam tactic to steal confidential data or money.

   8. Are there scams specifically targeting businesses in Cambodia?

   Yes, CEO fraud is on the rise. Scammers pose as company executives and instruct employees to urgently transfer funds to fraudulent accounts.

   9. What are the first steps to take when facing a scam attempt?

   • Report the scam immediately.

   • File a police complaint as soon as possible.

   • Notify your bank to monitor or secure your bank account.

   • Inform your contacts to prevent further victims of online fraud.

   10. Is there a reliable way to check if a site or email is a scam?

   • Always verify the URL addresses (be wary of fake sites that mimic real ones).

   • Only trust websites that are secure (https://).

   • When in doubt, contact the organization directly through official channels before sharing any personal information.

   11. How can I tell if a website or online store is legitimate?

   • Check if the site uses HTTPS and has clear contact information.

   • Look for reviews from reputable sources.

   • Be cautious of prices that are “too good to be true” — it’s a common tactic used by fraudsters.

   • Verify if the business is registered with a trade commission or official registry.

   12. What are the most common cyber threats in Cambodia linked to scams?

   • Phishing scams via email, SMS, and social media.

   • Malware hidden in fake apps or fraudulent websites.

   • Ransomware attacks, where your data is encrypted and a ransom is demanded.

   • Hackers stealing your account information and financial information.

   13. What happens if my device gets compromised?

   If your phone or computer is hacked, criminals can:

   • Access your account credentials (usernames, passwords).

   • Steal your card information and credit card numbers.

   • Collect sensitive data like your social security number or security number.

   • Install malicious programs to track your activity and steal more data.

   14. How do scammers use phone calls to steal information?

   Scammers may pretend to be from:

   • Banks,

   • Government agencies,

   • Technical support services.

   During the phony phone call, they’ll ask you to verify your account-number, card number, or other financial information.
   Legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive data over an unsolicited call.

   15. How do I spot a fake investment platform or bogus trading app?

   • The platform pressures you to invest quickly.

   • No verifiable company registration or license.

   • Fraudsters may show fake profit screenshots to lure you in.

   • The site/app may contain malicious code or malware designed to steal your credentials.

   16. Can scammers steal my identity just with my phone number?

   Yes, hackers and thieves can exploit your phone number through:

   • SIM swapping,

   • Sending fake phishing scam links,

   • Accessing linked accounts (like messaging apps).

   Never share your phone number publicly on untrusted sites or platforms.

   17. What should I do if my account has been hacked?

   • Immediately change your credentials (passwords, PIN codes).

   • Contact your bank and credit card provider.

   • Enable two-factor authentication.

   • Report the breach to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or equivalent authority.

   • Run a malware and cybersecurity scan on your devices.

   18. Are there tactics used by scammers to make their emails look legitimate?

   Yes, scammers often:

   • Use email addresses that look similar to reputable companies.

   • Add logos, footers, and official-looking signatures.

   • Create a sense of urgency (e.g., “Your account will be suspended!”).

   • Insert malicious links that lead to fake login pages designed to steal your credentials.

   19. How can I protect my credit card numbers from being stolen online?

   • Use virtual cards for online purchases.

   • Avoid saving your card information on websites.

   • Only shop from reputable and secure platforms.

   • Monitor your bank statements for unauthorized transactions.

   20. What should I do if I suspect a phishing scam or bogus site?

   • Do not click on any links.

   • Report the incident to the trade commission or a cybercrime authority.

   • Inform your bank if any account information was shared.

   • Warn your contacts to prevent further spread.

   • Use official channels to verify the legitimacy of the communication.