Cambodia Enacts Stringent Law to Combat Online Scams with Severe Penalties
Synopsis
In a decisive move, the Cambodian government has approved a new law aimed at combating online scams, imposing harsh penalties on masterminds. This legislation is part of a broader crackdown to enhance public safety and deter cybercrime.
Key Takeaways
Cambodia's new law imposes severe penalties on online scam leaders.
Imprisonment terms can range from five years to life, depending on the severity of the crime.
Authorities are focused on eradicating cyber scams to enhance public safety.
Over 30,000 suspected scammers have been deported in recent months.
The law is pending approval from the National Assembly and Senate.
Phnom Penh, March 13 (NationPress) The Cambodian authorities have officially sanctioned a draft legislation aimed at curbing online fraud, imposing stringent penalties on those orchestrating these schemes, as stated by a government minister.
This endorsement was announced during a routine Cabinet session, according to Neth Pheaktra, Cambodia's Information Minister.
"This law stands as Cambodia's pivotal legal mechanism against online fraud, tackling money laundering and asserting that our nation is not a sanctuary for criminals," he conveyed to Xinhua news agency. "Cambodia is resolute in ensuring it is not a refuge for online scam perpetrators."
Pheaktra further elaborated that this legislation is designed to thwart and eradicate online scams within Cambodian borders. According to the draft, leaders of online scam operations could face imprisonment for five to ten years and fines reaching up to 1 billion riels (approximately 250,000 US dollars). If their activities are linked to violence, torture, illegal detention, human trafficking, or forced labor, they could be sentenced to between ten and twenty years in prison, alongside fines of up to 2 billion riels (around 500,000 dollars).
The draft law stipulates that those responsible for online scams resulting in fatalities could face sentences ranging from fifteen years to life imprisonment. Additionally, individuals found guilty of online scamming could be sentenced to two to five years in prison, with fines up to 500 million riels (about 125,000 dollars).
This draft legislation must be approved by the National Assembly and subsequently reviewed by the Senate before it can be submitted to King Norodom Sihamoni for final enactment.
In a bid to uphold social security, safety, and public order, Cambodia has initiated a sweeping nationwide operation against cyber scam networks. Authorities are committed to dismantling these online scam centers by April of this year in order to restore the kingdom's reputation on the global stage.
Interior Minister Sar Sokha disclosed that Cambodia has deported over 30,000 suspected foreign scammers, while more than 210,000 others have left the country voluntarily as a result of intensified anti-scam measures initiated since June of the previous year.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the Cambodian government's proactive stance in addressing the pervasive issue of online scams. This new legislation not only aims to protect citizens but also positions Cambodia as a serious contender in the global fight against cybercrime.
NationPress
11 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for online scam masterminds in Cambodia?
Masterminds of online scams in Cambodia could face imprisonment for five to ten years and fines of up to 1 billion riels. If their activities involve severe crimes, penalties increase to 10 to 20 years and fines of up to 2 billion riels.
What is the purpose of the new law enacted by Cambodia?
The new law aims to combat online scams, tackle money laundering, and ensure that Cambodia is not a safe haven for criminals.
How many foreign scammers have been deported from Cambodia?
Over 30,000 suspected foreign scammers have been deported from Cambodia as part of the crackdown on cyber scams.
What steps are being taken to eradicate online scams in Cambodia?
The Cambodian government has launched a nationwide crackdown on cyber scam networks, with a commitment to dismantle these operations by April of this year.
What is the status of the new anti-scam legislation?
The draft legislation has been approved by the Cabinet and will now be reviewed by the National Assembly and Senate before being submitted to the King for final approval.
