The Cambodian government has given the green light to a new law aimed at tackling online scams, with harsh punishments for those behind such activities. Cambodia’s Information Minister Neth Pheaktra highlighted the significance of this law in the fight against online fraud, money laundering, and ensuring that Cambodia is not a safe haven for criminals. The legislation targets ringleaders of online scam operations, who could face up to 20 years in prison and hefty fines if their activities involve violence or other serious crimes.
The proposed law outlines strict penalties for online scam bosses, with sentences ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment if their actions result in fatalities. Additionally, individuals involved in online scams could face imprisonment of up to five years along with substantial fines. The bill is set to undergo further review by the National Assembly and the Senate before being presented to King Norodom Sihamoni for final approval.
Cambodia has been actively cracking down on cyber scam networks to enhance social security and public order, aiming to eliminate online scam centers by April. Interior Minister Sar Sokha revealed that the country has already deported thousands of suspected foreign scammers and seen many others leave voluntarily following intensified anti-scam operations since last year.
