Cambodia online gambling and scam crackdown

Cambodian authorities have intensified efforts to combat technology-based scam networks and online fraud through strict regulatory actions against the casino industry.

In August 2026, the Secretariat of the Commission for Combating Online Scams (CCOS) reported the revocation of 20 casino licenses and the suspension of 29 others. This enforcement campaign included inspections of all 195 licensed casinos in the country and targeted 751 suspected scam facilities, leading to the closure of 605 locations. These operations resulted in legal proceedings against 4,147 suspects and the rescue or repatriation of over 21,600 foreign nationals.

Following these crackdowns, Prime Minister Hun Manet directed a total suspension of all online gambling activities at casinos nationwide, effective October 2026. Interior Minister Sar Sokha noted that investigations found casinos were livestreaming gambling activities, creating unmanageable financial flows. The suspension is intended to allow authorities to develop a transparent management system, including improved legal frameworks and digital infrastructure. Online gambling will only be considered for reinstatement once new regulatory oversight measures are established.