visa-admin
Updated 2026-05-15 5 min
In short
- ●13,055 foreigners deported from Cambodia for involvement in online scams between 2025 and May 2026.
- ●Operations conducted in several provinces, including Siem Reap, Preah Sihanouk, and Phnom Penh.
- ●Expats are advised to verify their employers and report any suspicious activity.
- ●The Cambodian government is strengthening its legislation and international cooperation against cybercrime.
13,055
Total Deportations
2025 - May 2026
Period
Cambodia (Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Phnom Penh...)
Location(s)
Embassy of Cambodia in Japan
Source
Key Facts at a Glance
- 13,055 deportations. Total number of foreigners deported for cybercrime between 2025 and May 2026, according to the Embassy of Cambodia in Japan.
- Zero-tolerance strategy. The Cambodian government asserts a firm policy against online scams, with legal reforms and targeted operations.
- International cooperation. Cambodia collaborates with Japan and other countries to combat cross-border criminal networks.
- Legal reforms. Adoption of new laws to criminalize cybercrime activities and strengthen border controls.
- Impact on expats. Legitimate expats are urged to report any suspicious job offers and verify the legality of their employer.
How It Happened
Here are the key steps in Cambodia's fight against cybercrime, as presented by the embassy.
- 2024: Cambodia launches a series of targeted operations against online scam centers, notably in Sihanoukville and Poipet.
- Early 2025: The government announces a 'zero-tolerance' strategy and strengthens cybercrime legislation.
- Mid-2025: Over 5,000 foreigners are deported; hundreds of suspects are handed over to Chinese and Vietnamese authorities.
- Late 2025: Cambodia signs cooperation agreements with Japan and other countries to share intelligence and coordinate arrests.
- May 2026: The Embassy of Cambodia in Japan issues a statement defending the kingdom's record, with a total of 13,055 deportations.
- Next steps: Continued operations, enhanced border controls, and awareness campaigns for expats.
Breakdown
The deportations mainly involve nationals from neighboring countries, but also other nationalities. Here is the breakdown by nationality and province.
| Segment | Number | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese nationals | 8,200 | Largest share of deportees, involved in scam centers in Sihanoukville. |
| Vietnamese nationals | 2,800 | Second largest group, often recruited through fraudulent job offers. |
| Thai nationals | 1,200 | Involved in cross-border operations. |
| Other nationalities | 855 | Includes nationals from African, European, and American countries. |
| Preah Sihanouk province | 6,500 | Epicenter of operations, with many dismantled centers. |
| Siem Reap province | 1,200 | Operations targeting local networks, with less impact on legitimate expats. |
What This Means for Siem Reap
- Expats must ensure their employer is registered and complies with Cambodian laws, or risk unintentional complicity.
- Visa and work permit checks are tightened: any irregular stay can lead to swift deportation.
- Too-good-to-be-true job offers (high salary, few skills required) should be reported to authorities.
- Cooperation with foreign embassies is intensifying: expats can contact their representation if in doubt.
- Police operations are more frequent in tourist areas and residential complexes, but law-abiding expats have nothing to fear.
How to Stay Out of Trouble
- Check your visa: Ensure your visa is valid and matches your activity (tourist, work, retirement).
- Choose a legal employer: Request a registered employment contract and a work permit before starting.
- Beware of suspicious job offers: If the salary is disproportionate or the tasks vague, report it to the embassy or police.
- Don't lend your documents: Do not let anyone use your passport or visa for illegal activities.
- Report any suspicious activity: Contact local police (117) or your embassy if you witness scams.
- Stay informed: Follow SiemReapHub news and official announcements for the latest operations.
- Respect the law: Cambodia enforces zero tolerance; any violation can lead to immediate deportation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total number of deportations related to cybercrime in Cambodia?
According to the Embassy of Cambodia in Japan, 13,055 foreigners were deported between 2025 and May 2026.
Which nationalities are most affected by these deportations?
Chinese (8,200), Vietnamese (2,800), and Thai (1,200) nationals are the most represented.
Are expats in Siem Reap in danger?
No, operations target criminal networks. Law-abiding expats have nothing to fear, but should remain vigilant.
What should I do if I witness an online scam?
Report it to local police (117) or your embassy. You can also contact SiemReapHub for advice.
How can I check if my employer is legal in Cambodia?
Request a registered employment contract, a work permit, and verify the company's registration with the Ministry of Commerce.
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Published by
Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia