The Thai government, represented by Thailand’s Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Jantararuangtong, has accused Cambodia of harboring some of the world’s largest cybercrime syndicates, allegedly backed by influential figures within the Cambodian elite and government.
On Thursday, Minister Prasert stated that Cambodia is now under close surveillance, especially after recent findings from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). A new cybercrime map published by the UNODC highlights the concentration of illegal operations along the Thai-Cambodian border, particularly in Poipet—a city now viewed as a strategic hub for transnational online fraud.
Border Closure and Drop in Fraud Cases
Earlier this week, Thai authorities implemented a temporary border closure, restricting Thai nationals who work in casinos and entertainment complexes in Poipet from crossing into Cambodia. This move, while controversial, appears to have had immediate effects.
According to Prasert, daily reports of online fraud dropped from 1,300 to 900 following the border checkpoint closures on June 7th. Citing data reported by the Bangkok Post, he noted that from March 2024 to March 2025, Thai authorities handled 1.18 million online scam cases, froze more than 520,000 bank accounts, and prevented financial losses amounting to THB19.9 billion (approximately $607 million).
“These figures clearly show that border closures and cutting electricity and internet access directly reduce the scale of transnational cybercrime and online fraud,” Prasert asserted.
Impact on Legal Casino Operations
While the crackdown may curb criminal activity, it has also disrupted legitimate business. The border restrictions have negatively impacted licensed land-based casinos, including Donaco’s Star Vegas in Poipet. The property is now facing significant operational challenges due to decreased foot traffic and workforce shortages.
As diplomatic tensions escalate, both governments face increasing pressure to address cybercrime while preserving legal economic activity at the border.
