Cambodia: 85 Scam Sites Shut Down, 1,255 Suspects Arrested in August

• 85 scam sites shut down. The Ministry of Interior shut down 85 small-scale online scam operations during August 2026.
• 1,255 suspects arrested. The operations led to the arrest of 1,255 people, according to figures from the National Police.
• 13 nationalities involved. Those arrested came from 13 different countries, confirming the international nature of these networks.
• August 2026. All closures and arrests took place within the single month of August, as part of the ongoing national campaign.
• Ministry of Interior action. These operations are part of Cambodia's ongoing campaign against scam centers, with a focus on smaller operations.

The August 2026 operation is part of a series of intensified inspections by Cambodian authorities over several months. Here are the known milestones.

1. Background: the national campaign against scam centers continues, with targeting expanded to smaller operations.
2. Early August 2026: Ministry of Interior authorities step up on-the-ground inspections, backed by the National Police.
3. Mid-August 2026: the first closures of small-scale scam sites are recorded, with a wave of arrests.
4. Late August 2026: the tally stands at 85 sites shut down and 1,255 suspects arrested, from 13 different nationalities.
5. September 15, 2026: the figures are made public via the National Police and reported by media, including the Phnom Penh Post.
6. Upcoming: authorities announce continued inspections of smaller operations in the following months.

The published data allows the August 2026 operation to be broken down along several lines. The breakdown by nationality remains partial, but the diversity of those arrested is confirmed.

• Country's reputation. The announcement of 85 sites shut down and 1,255 arrests in one month confirms that Cambodia is actively working to clean up its image among investors and travelers.
• Increased vigilance over job offers. Expats and digital nomads receiving job proposals should be extra cautious: smaller operations are now being targeted.
• Possible inspections in tourist areas. Authorities may extend their inspections to neighborhoods or buildings in Siem Reap, including near areas frequented by expats.
• Positive signal for legitimate businesses. Honest entrepreneurs and investors benefit from a healthier environment, with less unfair competition linked to scam networks.
• Impact on rentals and coworking spaces. Property owners and managers of shared spaces are encouraged to verify the actual activity of their tenants to avoid any risk of administrative closure.

1. Step 1: always verify the identity and actual activity of any employer or business partner before committing.
2. Step 2: refuse job offers that promise high income without specific skills or a serious interview.
3. Step 3: never lend your name, passport, or bank account to a third party for professional activity.
4. Step 4: report any suspicious activity to local authorities or through official National Police channels.
5. Step 5: keep your residency documents (visa, work permit) up to date to avoid problems during inspections.
6. Step 6: stay informed regularly via local media and trusted expat groups about ongoing operations.
7. Step 7: if in doubt about a residence or workplace, consult your embassy or a local legal advisor.