Cambodian authorities say online scam activity has fallen by around 50 percent since the start of 2026, as the government boosts efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating across the country.
The estimate was shared by Senior Minister Chhay Sinarith, head of the Commission for Combating Technology Crimes. He described the figure as preliminary, noting that the assessment is not yet final or fully verified. Officials have not explained how the reduction was calculated, nor have they provided updated figures on how many scam compounds remain active.
Cambodia has faced growing international pressure to curb online fraud operations, which expanded rapidly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Governments, including China and the United States, have called for stronger enforcement, while human rights groups have urged authorities to tackle alleged abuses linked to scam centres.
Many of the criminal syndicates involved operate across Southeast Asia and maintain links to networks in China. They are known for running so-called “pig-butchering” investment scams, romance fraud schemes, and illegal online gambling platforms. These operations often rely on digital advertising and social media to target victims overseas.
Over 200 scam sites dismantled
According to officials, dozens of raids have been carried out in recent months. Nearly 200 suspected scam sites have been dismantled, and around 11,000 foreign nationals deported. Authorities say close to 500 suspects have been formally charged and detained. More than 100 cases remain under active investigation, with law enforcement agencies tracking financial flows and seizing assets believed to be linked to fraudulent activity.
(Source: Cambodia’s People’s Party)
One of the most prominent developments has been the arrest and extradition of alleged kingpin Chen Zhi to China in 2026. He is suspected of overseeing a large-scale scam network. Court proceedings and related investigations are ongoing.
Independent estimates indicate the industry remains large. Analysts say scam compounds in Sihanoukville’s casino districts and border areas like Poipet have trafficked between 100,000 and 150,000 workers.
Many are believed to have been forced into carrying out online fraud under threats and coercion. The United Nations has previously warned that scam centres in Southeast Asia form a multibillion-dollar industry, often linked to human trafficking and forced labour.
A billion-dollar syndicate
The United States Institute of Peace estimates that global scam and illegal gambling networks stole nearly $64 billion in 2023. Experts say illegal betting operations are often used to launder money from online fraud.
Cambodian officials have pledged to bring what they describe as “ringleaders and masterminds” to justice and say they aim to bring remaining operations under control by April 2026. They maintain that progress is measurable and that enforcement efforts are intensifying.
Activists and crime analysts remain cautious. They say criminal networks adapt quickly, often moving across borders or changing tactics when under pressure. New digital tools and artificial intelligence have made it easier to expand scams and automate fraudulent messages.
Authorities point to recent gains, but observers say the regional and global reach of these networks means the fight will likely continue beyond this year.
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