Phnom Penh: 132 Million Riels in Fines for Property Owners Complicit in Online Scams

security

Updated 2026-06-09 5 min

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In short

●132 million riels (approximately $33,000) in fines imposed on property owners in Phnom Penh.
●Penalties for security violations and alleged complicity in online scam activities.
●Expats renting a property must ensure their housing is compliant to avoid legal issues.
●Authorities intensify the fight against cyber scams by targeting real estate infrastructure.

132 million KHR

Total fines amount

June 9, 2026

Announcement date

Phnom Penh

Location

The Phnom Penh Post

Source

132 million riels in fines. Phnom Penh authorities imposed this amount on property owners for failing to comply with safety regulations and for housing suspicious activities linked to online scams.
Targeted penalties. The fines target property owners whose premises were used for cybercrime operations.
Context of anti-scam efforts. This action is part of a broader campaign by Cambodian authorities to dismantle online fraud networks.
Impact on expats. Expatriate tenants must ensure their housing is in order to avoid any unintentional involvement.
Preventive measures. Authorities encourage property owners to report any suspicious activity and comply with safety standards.

Phnom Penh authorities stepped up their actions against online scams in 2026, targeting complicit or negligent property owners.

Early 2026: Cambodian authorities intensify raids on online scam centers, especially in Phnom Penh and provinces.
May 2026: Safety inspections are conducted in several Phnom Penh neighborhoods, targeting rental buildings.
June 2026: Authorities announce they have imposed 132 million riels in fines on property owners for safety violations and for housing suspicious activities.
June 9, 2026: The information is reported by The Phnom Penh Post, alerting expats and property owners.
Next steps: Authorities plan to continue inspections and penalties, with a focus on tracing property owners.

The fines were distributed among several categories of property owners and violations. Here are the identified segments:

Segment	Amount (KHR)	Detail
Residential building owners	80 million	Non-compliance with fire safety and access standards.
Commercial premises owners	35 million	Housing suspicious activities without declaration.
Mixed-use building owners	17 million	Lack of CCTV system and tenant register.
Total	132 million	Approximately $33,000.

Check that your landlord has installed compliant safety equipment (fire extinguishers, emergency exits).
Ensure your lease agreement mentions the landlord's legal obligations.
Report any suspicious activity in your building to local authorities (police station or city hall).
Request an official rent receipt to prove your legal occupancy.
If in doubt about your housing compliance, contact the Siem Reap Expats Association for advice.

Step 1: Check your landlord's background via the local land office or expat groups.
Step 2: Inspect safety devices: fire alarm, extinguishers, common area lighting.
Step 3: Request a written lease in English or Khmer, with safety obligations clearly stated.
Step 4: Keep a copy of your lease and rent receipts.
Step 5: Report any safety issues to your landlord in writing (email or message) to keep a record.
Step 6: If you notice suspicious activity (unusual comings and goings, large amounts of computer equipment), discreetly inform the local police.
Step 7: Join expat groups in Siem Reap to stay informed about the latest safety measures.

What does a property owner risk for not complying with safety standards?

They may face fines of up to several million riels, or even suspension of their rental permit.

Can expats be held responsible for illegal activities in their housing?

Yes, if the expat is involved or aware of the activities without reporting them. It is important to stay vigilant.

How can I tell if my housing is compliant?

Check for fire extinguishers, emergency exits, adequate lighting, and a tenant register. If in doubt, contact the city hall.

What should I do if my landlord refuses to install safety equipment?

Report it to the urban planning office or local police. You may also consider moving to another property.

Where can I report suspicious activity in my building?

Contact the nearest police station or the anti-crime hotline (117). Stay discreet for your safety.

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Siem Reap Hub

The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia