Cambodia Steps Up Fight Against Online Scam Networks

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said restoring the country’s international reputation has become one of his government’s biggest challenges. Speaking at the 3rd National Day of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Phnom Penh, he described efforts to improve Cambodia’s global image following negative publicity surrounding online scam operations as a “war to restore reputation.”

Government maintains pressure on scam operations

Hun Manet called on provincial authorities to continue pursuing online scam networks across the country, describing the effort as essential for protecting Cambodia’s international standing and creating a secure environment for businesses and visitors.

According to Khmer Times, he said authorities would remain “resolute” in tackling online fraud because such activities undermine investor confidence and damage the country’s business climate.

The government’s campaign has intensified throughout 2025 and 2026. Data released by the Commission for Combating Online Scams showed authorities targeted more than 500 suspected scam locations nationwide between early 2025 and June 22, 2026.

Those enforcement efforts have also affected the country’s regulated gaming sector. Authorities reported that 25 casino licences have either been revoked or suspended during the crackdown.

The focus on casinos has expanded further after Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth instructed relevant government agencies to conduct comprehensive reviews of casino operations across Cambodia.

Speaking at a seminar on gaming regulation and efforts to combat online fraud, Aun Pornmoniroth warned that casinos found to be involved in online scams or other illegal activities could lose their operating licences. As chairman of the Commercial Gambling Management Commission, he said licensing compliance would remain under close review.

Tourism and investment concerns remain in focus

The government’s enforcement campaign comes as Cambodia attempts to reverse the impact that online scam activity has had on its international image. Hun Manet said eliminating these criminal networks is necessary to strengthen public trust and restore confidence among investors and the international community.

The issue has also weighed on the country’s tourism industry. International tourist arrivals to Cambodia declined by 47.8% during the first five months of 2026. A local tourism executive recently linked the decline to negative publicity surrounding scam centers and the ongoing border dispute with neighbouring Thailand.

International attention has also increased following allegations by Amnesty International earlier this year that Cambodia renewed the licences of 12 casinos despite claims of serious human rights abuses connected to scam operations. In response, the government identified combating online scams as one of its highest priorities and has continued expanding enforcement measures.

Officials believe stronger oversight of casino operations, continued action against fraud networks and stricter regulatory enforcement will help improve Cambodia’s international reputation while creating a safer environment for tourism, investment and legitimate business activity.

Hun Manet also reaffirmed Cambodia’s position on its border dispute with Thailand, stating that the countrywould continue protecting its sovereignty while pursuing peaceful negotiations. He said unresolved issues should be handled through international legal mechanisms where necessary and stressed that both countries should remain patient and avoid the use of force to preserve regional stability.