The Digester
crime

Cambodia passes law targeting scam centres with new prison terms and fines

Cambodia’s parliament approved a law on April 3 to punish operators of scam centres with new prison terms and heavy fines, responding to international pressure and recent sanctions and extraditions.

Apr 3rd 2026 · Cambodia

Insights

  • Parliament approved the first law specifically targeting scam centres on April 3, 2026, and it will go to the king for final signature.
  • General offences carry two to five years in prison and fines up to $125,000.
  • Scams committed by gangs or against many victims can attract up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000.
  • The law also penalises money laundering, harvesting victims data, and recruiting scammers.
  • The measure follows international pressure, including UK sanctions on alleged fraud networks, and recent extraditions of suspects to China.
  • Cambodian officials say the crackdown aims to close hundreds of scam sites and prevent their return.

Sources