**Cambodia Closes Over 700 Cyberscam Locations in Major Crackdown**
**Published: August 28, 2026**
In a significant enforcement action, the Cambodian government announced on Friday that it has shut down more than 700 online scam centers over the past year. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to combat the rising tide of cybercrime that has turned Cambodia into a hub for various fraudulent schemes, including fake romantic relationships and cryptocurrency investment scams.
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), industrial-scale scam operations across Asia are estimated to generate nearly €35 billion (approximately $40 billion) annually. The Cambodian authorities have responded to international pressure from countries such as the United States and China, aiming to dismantle these criminal networks that exploit internet users worldwide.
The government's statement revealed that the crackdown has led to the detention of nearly 30,000 suspects, including 15 high-ranking officials and law enforcement officers. Additionally, authorities reported the deportation of 58,266 foreign nationals who were involved in these scams. Among those arrested, over 3,400 individuals from 29 different countries, including China, Vietnam, Australia, France, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand, are currently awaiting trial.
Despite the closure of large-scale scam centers, Cambodian officials have noted a shift in tactics among criminal groups. These organizations have begun to decentralize their operations, moving to smaller venues such as guesthouses, rental houses, vehicles, and coffee shops to evade detection. This adaptation poses ongoing challenges for law enforcement as they work to combat cybercrime in an evolving landscape.
The Cambodian government's efforts have included high-profile extraditions of individuals linked to major scams. In January, Chen Zhi, the Chinese-born chairman of the Prince Holding Group, was extradited to China after being sanctioned by the US and UK governments. Similarly, in April, Li Xiong, the former chairman of Huione Group, was also sent to China, where he is accused of being involved in a significant transnational gambling and fraud syndicate.
As the Cambodian government continues its crackdown on cybercrime, the international community remains watchful. The recent actions reflect a growing recognition of the need to address the complexities of cyber fraud and its implications for global security and economic stability.
The Cambodian authorities have emphasized their commitment to eradicating these criminal enterprises, but the ongoing evolution of cybercrime tactics suggests that the fight against online scams will require sustained efforts and international cooperation.