Cambodia Warns Public of Rising Bank Account Scams

Phnom Penh: Criminals are increasingly using deceptive tactics to trick victims into opening bank accounts, which are then exploited as "money mules" to receive funds from illegal activities or for money laundering, according to the General Department of Digital Technology and Dissemination and Education. To enhance public vigilance, the technical team has highlighted four common schemes employed by these criminals: 1. Buying/Renting Bank Accounts: Perpetrators use social media to lure victims into opening bank accounts, then demand the handover of PIN codes, OTPs, and ATM cards, promising high financial compensation in return. 2. Job Recruitment Scams: Criminals create fake job openings, such as remote work, data entry, or advertising roles, requiring victims to open bank accounts for salary deposits. Subsequently, they manipulate or demand control over these accounts. 3. Identity Theft for Account Opening: Scammers obtain personal information, including ID card photos and victim portraits, under the guise of offering easy loans, financial aid, or prize winnings. This data is then used to open online or instant bank accounts without the victim needing to visit a physical branch. 4. Impersonation of Authorities or Bank Staff: Criminals make threatening calls or send messages, claiming the victim is involved in an offense or that their account has issues. They then coerce victims into opening new accounts or granting them control to resolve the supposed problems. The technical team of the General Department of Digital Technology and Dissemination and Education also shares protective measures: 1. Never provide your ID card, photos, PIN/OTP codes, or open bank accounts for others in exchange for any benefit. 2. Do not sell or rent out your bank accounts. 3. Remember that national police officers, civil servants, and bank employees do not have the authority to demand control over your bank accounts. If anyone attempts to rent, encourage the opening of, or solicit control over your bank account, please report it to the relevant authorities immediately. Source: Koh Santep Khmer