Cambodia Enacts Harsh Law Against Cyber Scam Operators

• •Cambodia's new law imposes life sentences for scam operators involved in deaths.
• •Fines for cyber scam activities can reach up to 2 billion riel ($500,000).
• •The law aims to combat the growing issue of cyber scams and restore economic confidence.

On April 6, 2026, Cambodia's government passed a stringent law targeting cyber scam operations, particularly those involving cryptocurrency fraud. The law imposes severe penalties, including life imprisonment for operators involved in scams leading to death, and prison terms ranging from five to 30 years for various roles within scam networks. Fines can reach up to 2 billion riel (approximately $500,000) depending on the severity of the crime. This legislation follows international pressure from countries like China and the US to dismantle Cambodia's cyber scam ecosystem. Recent police actions have already shut down over 190 scam compounds and detained thousands of suspects. The law aims to restore confidence in the economy and tourism, which have been adversely affected by rampant scams. It also addresses the recruitment and training of scam personnel, holding individuals accountable for their involvement. The Cambodian government is committed to eradicating all scam centers by April 2026.