Cambodia Passes Landmark Cybercrime Law to Crack Down on Scam Centres

Cambodia has taken a significant step in its fight against cybercrime, with parliament approving the country’s first law specifically designed to target online scam operations.

The legislation comes amid growing international pressure on governments in Southeast Asia to tackle scam centres that have defrauded victims worldwide of billions of dollars. The new law is part of a broader national crackdown aimed at dismantling these networks and preventing their return.

A Stronger Legal Framework Against Online Fraud

Justice Minister Keut Rith described the law as a decisive move to eliminate online scams and restore confidence in the country’s economy.

He stated that the legislation is designed to be strict and comprehensive, ensuring that scam operations are not only shut down but also prevented from re-emerging. According to him, the issue has had far-reaching consequences, affecting Cambodia’s economy, tourism sector, and investment climate.

The law will now be sent to the King for final approval before it comes into force.

Tough Penalties for Offenders

Under the new framework, individuals convicted of online scams face prison sentences ranging from two to five years, along with fines of up to $125,000.

More severe penalties apply to organised crime groups or large-scale fraud cases involving multiple victims. In such instances, offenders could face up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching $250,000.

The legislation also introduces punishments for related offences, including money laundering, collecting victims’ personal data, and recruiting individuals into scam operations.

Responding to International Scrutiny

Until now, Cambodia lacked a dedicated legal framework targeting cyber scams. Authorities previously relied on broader charges such as fraud, money laundering, or exploitation-related offences.

The new law follows mounting criticism from international organisations and governments, with Cambodia frequently cited as a hub for large-scale online scam operations.

Recent actions have intensified scrutiny. The United Kingdom imposed sanctions on operators linked to what it described as one of the largest fraud complexes in the country, as well as an online marketplace used to trade stolen personal data.

These developments highlight concerns about a rapidly expanding network of scam centres across Southeast Asia, where reports suggest workers are often confined and forced to carry out fraudulent activities.

A Broader Crackdown Underway

Cambodian authorities say the latest campaign is more extensive than previous efforts, focusing on shutting down hundreds of suspected scam sites and targeting key figures behind the operations.

Recent high-profile cases underscore this shift. Cambodian officials confirmed the extradition of Li Xiong, a former executive accused of laundering money for criminal organisations, to China. Earlier this year, businessman Chen Zhi was also arrested and extradited, marking a significant development in the crackdown on alleged scam networks.

Moving Toward Accountability

For years, Cambodia has faced criticism for downplaying the scale of scam compounds within its borders, with earlier enforcement efforts having limited impact.

The introduction of a dedicated cybercrime law signals a change in approach—one that combines stronger legislation with more aggressive enforcement.

As the law moves toward final approval, its effectiveness will depend on how rigorously it is implemented. However, it represents a clear attempt by Cambodian authorities to address a growing global issue and rebuild trust in the country’s digital and financial ecosystem.