10,000 SIM Cards Seized in Phnom Penh: 7 Arrests

• Over 10,000 SIM cards seized. Authorities confiscated a large batch of SIM cards during the operation.
• Seven people arrested. Suspects were apprehended in Phnom Penh in connection with scam centers.
• Computer equipment seized. Phones and computers were also recovered, evidence of the scale of fraudulent activities.
• Targeted operation. The raid specifically targeted scam centers operating in the capital.
• Vigilance required. Expats are urged to be wary of suspicious communications and protect their personal information.

The operation is part of a series of measures taken by Cambodian authorities to combat online fraud. Here are the key steps:

1. Preliminary investigation: Law enforcement conducted surveillance and gathered evidence on suspicious activities.
2. Coordinated raid: On August 22, 2026, police launched a simultaneous operation on multiple sites in Phnom Penh.
3. Arrests: Seven people were arrested on the spot without major incident.
4. Seizure of equipment: Over 10,000 SIM cards, as well as phones and computers, were confiscated.
5. Charges: Suspects were taken into custody and are expected to be brought before the court.
6. Follow-up planned: Authorities plan to extend investigations to dismantle other similar networks.

Although official details on the exact breakdown have not yet been published, the seized items give an indication of the scale:

• Phone scams may decrease in the short term, but networks can relocate.
• Expats should be more cautious with calls from unknown numbers, especially those claiming to be from banks or government agencies.
• Never share verification codes or personal information over the phone or via text.
• Verify the authenticity of messages before clicking on links or transferring money.
• Report any suspicious activity to local authorities or your country's embassy.

1. Step 1: Never respond to calls or texts from unknown numbers asking for personal information.
2. Step 2: Do not click on links sent by strangers, even if they appear to be from official institutions.
3. Step 3: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your online accounts.
4. Step 4: Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, especially promises of easy money.
5. Step 5: When in doubt, contact the organization directly through an official channel.
6. Step 6: If you fall victim to a scam, report it immediately to the police and your bank.