securite
Updated 2026-05-23 5 min
In short
- ●Three properties raided in Phnom Penh on May 23, 2026.
- ●26 Chinese nationals arrested for online scam operations.
- ●Expats in Siem Reap urged to be vigilant against scams targeting foreigners.
- ●This action is part of a broader crackdown on cyber fraud networks in Cambodia.
3
Properties raided
26
Arrests
May 23, 2026
Date
Phnom Penh Post
Source
Key facts at a glance
- 3 properties raided. Authorities targeted sites used for online scam operations in Phnom Penh.
- 26 Chinese nationals arrested. Suspects are accused of involvement in cyber fraud networks.
- Date of operation: May 23, 2026. The action was carried out by Cambodian police.
- Online scams targeting foreigners. Expats and tourists are often targeted by these networks.
- Ongoing crackdown. This operation follows a series of similar raids in recent months.
How it unfolded
Cambodian authorities have stepped up efforts against cybercrime. Here is the timeline of recent events.
- 2025-2026: Increase in reports of online scams targeting foreigners in Cambodia.
- Early 2026: Establishment of a special task force to dismantle networks.
- May 23, 2026: Simultaneous raid of three properties in Phnom Penh.
- May 23, 2026: Arrest of 26 Chinese nationals, seizure of computer equipment.
- Aftermath: Suspects will be brought to justice; investigations continue to identify other accomplices.
Breakdown
The dismantled scam operations mainly involved Chinese nationals operating from Phnom Penh. Here is the breakdown of arrests and sites.
| Segment | Number | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Suspects arrested | 26 | All Chinese nationals |
| Properties raided | 3 | Located in different districts of Phnom Penh |
| Victims identified | 35 | Rescued during a previous raid on riverside bars |
| Similar operations in 2026 | Several | Ongoing nationwide crackdown |
What this means for Siem Reap expats
- Expats should be extra cautious about too-good-to-be-true online job offers, often used as bait by scam networks.
- Fake tech support or investment scams particularly target foreigners; stay skeptical.
- Local authorities in Siem Reap may step up checks in tourist areas and expat-frequented establishments.
- Digital nomads are advised to secure their data and avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.
- If in doubt, contact your embassy or local police; a helpline may be set up.
How to stay out of trouble
- Don't respond to unsolicited offers: Ignore messages promising easy money or well-paid jobs without an interview.
- Verify sources: Before sharing personal or financial information, ensure the contact is legitimate.
- Use strong passwords: Enable two-factor authentication on all sensitive accounts.
- Report suspicious activity: Contact local police (117) or your embassy if you are a victim or witness a scam.
- Beware of fake support calls: Scammers pose as technicians or government agents. Never call back an unknown number.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi: Use a reliable VPN when connecting in cafes or hotels.
- Stay informed: Follow local news via reliable sources like the Phnom Penh Post to know about the latest scams.
Frequently asked questions
What types of scams were dismantled?
The operations involved online fraud networks, including investment scams, tech support scams, and fake job offers.
Are expats in Siem Reap directly threatened?
Yes, these networks often target foreigners. It is recommended to be vigilant against unsolicited solicitations.
What should I do if I fall victim to a scam?
Contact the police immediately at 117 and your embassy. Keep all evidence (messages, screenshots).
Were there any arrests in Siem Reap?
No, the raids took place in Phnom Penh. However, networks may have branches in other cities.
How are Cambodian authorities fighting these networks?
A special task force has been created. Operations are increasing, with regular raids and arrests.
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Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia