securite
Updated 2026-05-24 5 min
In short
- ●A new partnership between South Korea and Cambodia targets cyber scam networks affecting expats.
- ●The agreement provides technical assistance, intelligence sharing, and joint training.
- ●Expats in Siem Reap benefit from increased vigilance by authorities and improved reporting channels.
- ●Practical measures are recommended to avoid online and phone scams.
May 24, 2026
Partnership Announced
Technical and Diplomatic
Type of Cooperation
Cyber Scams
Primary Target
Phnom Penh Post
Source
Key Facts at a Glance
- Key Date. On May 24, 2026, South Korea and Cambodia formalized a strengthened partnership against cyber scams.
- Objective. Reduce the impact of online scams targeting expats and travelers.
- Means. Technical assistance, intelligence sharing, and joint training of law enforcement.
- Scope. The agreement covers all of Cambodia, with special attention to tourist areas like Siem Reap.
- Expected Impact. Better protection for foreigners and a decrease in cyber scam reports.
How It Happened
The cooperation between Seoul and Phnom Penh is part of a long-term dynamic, accelerated by the resurgence of cyber scams targeting South Korean nationals and other expats.
- 2023: First bilateral discussions on cybersecurity on the sidelines of an ASEAN summit.
- 2024: 40% increase in scam reports in Cambodia, with a significant portion involving calls from illegal centers.
- Early 2025: Signing of a technical memorandum of understanding for data exchange and training of Cambodian investigators.
- Late 2025: First joint operation dismantling a network of 200 people in Phnom Penh.
- May 24, 2026: Official announcement of the strengthened partnership, including an awareness component for expats.
- Next Steps: Deployment of a multilingual hotline and a reporting app dedicated to foreigners.
Breakdown
Cyber scams in Cambodia affect several segments, with varying impacts depending on region and profile.
| Segment | Figure | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| South Korean expats | 35% of victims | Primarily targeted by fraudulent calls from illegal centers. |
| Other expats (Western, Japanese) | 25% of victims | Fake investment scams and phishing. |
| Tourists | 20% of victims | Scams related to villa rentals and money transfers. |
| Cambodian residents | 20% of victims | SMS scams and identity theft. |
| Geographic areas | Phnom Penh (60%), Siem Reap (25%) | Siem Reap concentrates tourism and rental scams. |
What This Means for Siem Reap
- Simplified Reporting. A dedicated hotline for expats (in English, Korean, Khmer) will be operational by end of 2026.
- Increased Patrols. Tourist areas like Pub Street and temple vicinities benefit from enhanced surveillance.
- Local Force Training. Siem Reap tourist police officers receive training to identify and handle cyber scam complaints.
- Awareness Campaigns. Posters and messages via messaging apps (Telegram, WhatsApp) inform expats about common scams.
- Cooperation with Accommodations. Hotels and guesthouses are encouraged to share digital safety tips with guests.
How to Stay Safe
- Step 1: Never disclose your banking or personal information via unsolicited phone calls or emails.
- Step 2: Use secure messaging apps (Signal, WhatsApp) and enable two-factor authentication.
- Step 3: Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true (investments, rentals, jobs). Always verify through official sources.
- Step 4: Report any suspicious call or message to the dedicated hotline (number to come) or the Siem Reap tourist police station.
- Step 5: Stay informed via your country's embassy official channels and verified expat groups.
- Step 6: If scammed, immediately block transactions and contact your bank. Keep all evidence.
Frequently asked questions
What types of cyber scams are most common in Cambodia?
The most frequent are fraudulent calls from fake call centers, investment scams, email phishing, and rental property scams.
How can I report a cyber scam in Siem Reap?
You can contact the tourist police at the old town station, or use the hotline to be set up by end of 2026. In the meantime, report via your embassy.
Will this partnership really reduce scams?
Yes, because it enables real-time intelligence sharing and joint operations. Initial crackdowns have already shown a decrease in fraudulent calls.
Are expats more targeted than locals?
Yes, expats account for about 60% of cyber scam victims, as they are perceived to have more financial resources and less awareness of local scams.
What should I do if I have already been scammed?
Contact your bank immediately to block transactions, file a police report, and inform your embassy. Keep all documentation.
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Published by
Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia