Cambodia to Host International Conference on Combating Cyber Fraud, Vowing Enhanced Cooperation

Cambodia is set to host the "International Conference on Combating Cyber Fraud" in Phnom Penh from September 23-24, 2026, under the theme: "Together Towards Severing the Chains and Ending Online Scams." The organization of this international conference highlights the Cambodian government's strong commitment to fighting cyber fraud, enhancing technological security management, and promoting international cooperation. According to experts, the conference aims to bring together high-level officials, policymakers, and law enforcement officers from various countries to study, discuss, and formulate common perspectives in combating cyber fraud activities that pose a severe threat to the world. Senior Cambodian government officials have outlined three main objectives for the conference: First, to gain a clearer understanding of the complex and rapid evolution of cyber fraud offenses. Second, to enhance cooperation, as this type of crime is a complex transnational offense that no single country can combat or suppress alone. Third, to share experiences, including strengths, weaknesses, and practical lessons from each operation. As a victim country with experience, Cambodia wishes to share these lessons and aims to become a leading nation in fighting this complex cyber fraud. During a press conference on September 18, 2026, Minister of Information Net Pheaktra emphasized that online scams are a complex, interconnected issue involving organized criminal networks spanning multiple countries, and that law enforcement officers are often unable to act beyond their jurisdictional boundaries. Minister Net Pheaktra stated that the Cambodian government has prioritized this issue as a national security concern, employing a comprehensive and systematic response involving all ministries, institutions, and societal actors. He noted that over the past year, Cambodian authorities have cracked down on and completely eliminated 86 major scam locations identified by NGOs. The Minister stressed that this conference is not merely an international event but a significant demonstration of the Cambodian government's political will, responsibility, and openness, serving as an appeal to other nations for joint international action against cyber fraud. Cambodia is currently continuing its efforts to prevent and eliminate smaller-scale fraudulent activities occurring in cafes, guesthouses, and condominiums. Through these actions, the international community has begun to recognize Cambodia's efforts, moving away from past perceptions that labeled Cambodia as responsible for the issue, while Cambodia itself is also a victim of cyber fraud. Participation in the conference has been confirmed by over 20 countries, including the United States, China, Australia, Japan, South Korea, African nations, European countries, and ASEAN member states. Major international organizations such as the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), INTERPOL, and the Mekong-Lancang Law Enforcement Cooperation and Integration Center have also expressed their support and cooperation. Information Source: AKP Khmer