[REVISION HISTORY]

Cambodia online gambling and scam crackdown

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-17 08:15 UTC → 2026-10-09 10:26 UTC · added ~~removed~~

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 announced a total suspension of all online gambling activities at casinos nationwide, effective early October 2026. Describing online fraud as a ‘red line,’ the Prime Minister emphasized that such activities damage the nation’s reputation, tourism, and economy, stating the government will not tolerate ‘factories’ dedicated to fraudulent activities. He further warned law enforcement officials to prioritize national interests over personal concerns. In addition to the gambling ban, Hun Manet directed authorities to review licensing requirements to reduce the total number of casinos, noting that the current count of over 100 establishments is excessive. Interior Minister Sar Sokha previously 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 To enforce the prohibition, the Cambodian Gambling Management Commission (CGMC) and ~~digital infrastructure. Online gambling will only be considered for reinstatement once new regulatory oversight measures~~ the CCOS have launched joint nationwide inspections. These teams, comprising representatives from 16 regional jurisdictions, labor departments, national police, and prosecutors, are ~~established.~~ inspecting properties to identify illegal online hosting. Casinos found providing illegal services face administrative punishment and potential police intervention.

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