Cambodia Hosts International Conference, Adopts Phnom Penh Declaration to Combat Online Scams

AKP Phnom Penh, September 24, 2026 -- The following is the full text of the Phnom Penh Declaration on Acting Together towards Breaking the Chain and Eradication of Online Scams, adopted during the International Conference on Combating Online Scams (ICCOS-2026) hosted by Cambodia on Sept. 24 in Phnom Penh: We, the representatives of the participating countries and international organizations, gathered in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on September 24, 2026, for the International Conference on Combating Online Scams (ICCOS-2026); Recognizing the escalating threat posed by online scams to individuals, businesses, and national economies worldwide, and acknowledging the transnational nature of these criminal activities; Understanding that effective combating of online scams requires concerted and collaborative efforts at both national and international levels; Emphasizing the importance of breaking the chain of criminal networks involved in online scams and eradicating them for the safety and security of our citizens; Hereby adopt the Phnom Penh Declaration on Acting Together towards Breaking the Chain and Eradication of Online Scams: 1. Commitment to Enhanced Information Sharing and Intelligence Exchange: We commit to strengthening mechanisms for timely and effective sharing of information, intelligence, and best practices related to online scams among our law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities. 2. Strengthening Law Enforcement Cooperation and Capacity Building: We agree to enhance mutual legal assistance, extradition, and joint investigation efforts to dismantle transnational scam syndicates. We will also focus on capacity building initiatives to equip our law enforcement personnel with the necessary skills and tools to combat evolving scam tactics. 3. Promoting Public Awareness and Education: We recognize the critical role of public awareness in preventing online scams. We will collaborate on developing and disseminating educational materials and campaigns to inform citizens about common scam schemes, red flags, and protective measures. 4. Protecting Victims and Providing Support: We commit to establishing and strengthening frameworks for victim identification, support, and repatriation, ensuring that victims of online scams receive appropriate assistance and recourse. 5. Leveraging Technology and Innovation: We will explore and adopt innovative technological solutions and artificial intelligence to detect, prevent, and investigate online scams, while respecting privacy and human rights. 6. Fostering International Partnerships: We will actively engage with international organizations, regional bodies, and other stakeholders to build a global coalition against online scams and to ensure a coordinated international response. 7. Regular Review and Follow-up: We agree to establish a mechanism for regular review and follow-up on the implementation of this Declaration, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement in our collective efforts. We call upon all nations and relevant stakeholders to join us in this vital endeavor to create a safer online environment for all. Adopted in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on this 24th day of September 2026.