Cambodia has revoked 20 casino licenses and suspended 29 others as authorities intensify a nationwide crackdown on online scam centers and technology-related crime.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Secretariat of the Ad Hoc Commission for Combating Online Scams said authorities have taken action against 751 scam facilities, closing 605 of them. Officials have also investigated all 195 licensed casinos operating in Cambodia.
Thousands of Scam Suspects Face Prosecution
Between July 2025 and July 31, 2026, authorities filed 388 cases involving 4,147 suspects from 27 nationalities. The government has also deported tens of thousands of undocumented foreign nationals linked to illegal activities.
Touch Sokhak, deputy spokesperson for Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior, said the results demonstrate the government’s determination to combat online scams and prevent Cambodia from becoming a safe haven or money-laundering hub for criminals.
Scam Centers Operate as Criminal Networks
Authorities say scam centers operate as organised criminal networks, with senior managers setting targets and supervising workers.
These groups use high-speed internet, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), encrypted communications and other technologies to conceal their identities and locations. Reported scams include cryptocurrency investment fraud, romance scams and illegal online lending targeting victims inside and outside Cambodia.
Casino Industry Faces Increased Scrutiny
The crackdown comes amid growing international concern over scam operations linked to Cambodian casinos. Amnesty International has previously accused Cambodia of renewing licenses for casinos despite alleged evidence of serious human rights abuses.
However, authorities have not disclosed whether the 20 revoked licenses directly involved documented scam activities or provided specific reasons for each revocation and suspension.
Tourism Also Faces Impact
The crackdown comes as Cambodia deals with reputational concerns that could affect tourism. International tourist arrivals fell 47.8% during the first five months of 2026, according to the figures cited in the report.
Overall, Cambodia has now closed 605 of 751 targeted facilities and taken licensing action against 49 casinos. The government says these measures form part of its wider effort to dismantle organised online scam networks and strengthen oversight of the country’s casino sector.
