Cambodia is a safe and welcoming country, but like any popular destination, it has its share of scams targeting unsuspecting tourists and even business travelers. The good news? Most scams are easy to spot once you know what to look for. This guide covers the most common scams in Cambodia – from tuk‑tuk overcharging to fake investment schemes – and gives you simple, actionable tips to protect your money and your peace of mind.
⚡ Quick Reference: Most Common Scams at a Glance
| Scam Type | Target | Red Flag | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuk‑tuk overcharging | Tourists | “Meter broken” or “flat fee” without agreement | Use PassApp/Grab; agree price before moving |
| “Temple is closed” | Tourists | Driver offers alternative “special” temple | Insist on going to your original destination |
| Fake monk donation | Tourists | Monks asking for money on the street | Real monks never solicit cash |
| Bag snatching | Tourists (Phnom Penh) | Motorbike approaching slowly | Keep bag away from road side |
| Currency switch scam | Tourists (markets) | Changing exchange rate at last second | Count money carefully; use small bills |
| Fake land / investment deals | Business travelers | “Urgent”, “once‑in‑a‑lifetime” opportunity | Verify with Ministry of Land; use a lawyer |
| Phishing emails (visa, bank) | All | Emails claiming visa payment failed | Use only official .gov.kh sites |
🛺 1. Tuk‑Tuk & Transport Scams
The Setup
A tuk‑tuk driver offers you a very low fare (e.g., $1 for a long trip), then during the ride claims the meter is broken or that the price was “per person”. Alternatively, they take you to a “souvenir shop” or a “friend’s business” instead of your destination.
How to Avoid
- Always use PassApp or Grab (ride‑hailing apps). You see the fixed price before booking, and the driver is tracked.
- If you hail a tuk‑tuk on the street, agree on the price clearly before getting in. Say “How much to [destination]?” and confirm: “One dollar, yes?”.
- Avoid drivers who insist on waiting for you at temples or restaurants – they may overcharge for waiting time.
💡 Real‑life example: A tourist in Siem Reap agreed to $2 for a trip to Angkor Wat. The driver took him to a “free” temple first (which was a souvenir shop), then demanded $10. Always use an app or be very firm.
🏛️ 2. “Temple is Closed” or “Free Tour” Scam
The Setup
Your tuk‑tuk driver or a passerby tells you that your intended temple (e.g., Angkor Wat) is “closed for a private ceremony” or “closed for lunch”. They then offer to take you to a different temple or a “local village” – which turns out to be a carpet or souvenir shop where they receive a commission.
How to Avoid
- Never believe that Angkor Wat or any major temple is closed without checking official sources. The main temples are open every day from sunrise to sunset.
- If a driver says “temple closed”, insist on going anyway. You’ll quickly see it’s open.
- Avoid anyone offering a “free” tour – nothing is free.
🙏 3. Fake Monk Donation Scam
The Setup
A person dressed as a Buddhist monk approaches you on the street, often near tourist sites, and asks for a donation to “build a school” or “feed the poor”. They may even give you a bracelet or amulet as a “gift” and then demand money.
How to Avoid
- Real Cambodian monks never ask for money on the street. They receive alms (food) in the morning, but never cash.
- Politely say “No, thank you” and walk away. Do not engage.
- If you want to donate to a legitimate cause, research established charities (e.g., Kantha Bopha Foundation).
🛵 4. Bag Snatching & Phone Theft
The Setup
A motorbike (often with two people) rides slowly past you, and the passenger grabs your bag, phone, or camera. This happens most often in Phnom Penh, especially along riverside and busy markets.
How to Avoid
- Keep your bag on the side away from the road (wear it across your body).
- Don’t hold your phone while walking near the street – put it in your pocket or bag.
- Avoid walking alone late at night in quiet areas.
- Use a cross‑body bag with a zip and keep it closed.
⚠️ If your bag is snatched, do not chase – motorbikes can drag you. Immediately go to the nearest police station and cancel your cards.
💵 5. Currency & Change Scams
The Setup
- Market vendors may give you change in riel at an unfavorable rate (e.g., 4,500 riel = $1 instead of 4,000).
- Currency exchange booths may show a good rate but add hidden fees.
- The “quick change” trick: A seller gives you change, then snatches back a large bill and says you didn’t pay enough.
How to Avoid
- Carry small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) to avoid needing change.
- Know the exchange rate (approx. 4,000–4,100 riel = $1). If someone gives you 4,500+ riel for $1, you are being overcharged.
- Count your change carefully before leaving the counter.
- Use ATMs from major banks (ABA, ACLEDA) and avoid street money changers.
🏢 6. Business & Investment Scams
The Setup
- Fake land deals: Someone offers you a “prime” plot at a low price, but the land title is forged or the land belongs to someone else.
- Unlicensed agents: A “consultant” promises to fast‑track your company registration or visa for an extra fee, then disappears.
- Phishing emails: You receive an email claiming your Cambodian visa payment failed, with a link to a fake payment page.
How to Avoid
- For land or property: Always verify the title at the Ministry of Land Management (or through a trusted lawyer). Never pay cash upfront.
- For company registration: Use the government’s official Single Portal for business registration (
www.registrationservices.gov.kh). This is the only official online platform that directly links to the Ministry of Commerce, the General Department of Taxation, and the Ministry of Labour. It replaces the old, disconnected systems and significantly reduces the risk of fraud.
- 🔐 Golden rule for business: If an offer sounds too good to be true (e.g., 30% annual return), it’s almost certainly a scam. Verify every document with the relevant ministry.
- Pro tip: Always ensure you are on the official
*.gov.khwebsite. Avoid any individual who approaches you online or offline offering to “fast-track” your registration for an extra fee outside of the official platform. For complex cases, it’s still wise to consult a well-known law firm (e.g., DFDL, Tilleke & Gibbins).
For visas: Only use the official e‑visa website (www.evisa.gov.kh) or get a visa on arrival at the airport. Ignore emails asking for extra payments.
📧 7. Online & Phishing Scams
The Setup
- Fake hotel booking sites that look like Agoda or Booking.com but steal your credit card.
- “Your Cambodia visa has been rejected – click here to pay a fine.”
- Facebook Marketplace sellers asking for deposit before showing goods.
How to Avoid
- Book hotels through well‑known platforms (Agoda, Booking.com) and read recent reviews.
- Never click on links in unsolicited emails – go directly to the official website.
- For Facebook Marketplace, meet in person and pay only after seeing the item.
📋 Quick Checklist for Travelers & Business Visitors
| Before you go | During your trip |
|---|---|
| Read recent travel advisories | Use PassApp/Grab for transport |
| Download offline maps | Keep wallet/phone out of sight on roadsides |
| Save emergency numbers (117 police, 119 ambulance) | Politely refuse “free” tours or gifts |
| Notify your bank you are traveling | Count change carefully |
| Book hotels through trusted sites | Verify any business deal with a local lawyer |
🆘 What to Do If You Are Scammed
- Stay calm – do not confront the scammer physically.
- For bag snatching / theft: Go to the nearest Tourist Police (dial 012 942 484 in Phnom Penh or 097 778 0003 in Siem Reap).
- For online scams: Contact your bank immediately to block your card. Report to the Anti‑Cyber Crime Department (dial 117).
- For fake investment deals: Gather all documents and file a complaint with the Ministry of Commerce or General Department of Taxation.
- Share your experience on travel forums (TripAdvisor, Reddit) to warn others – but only after reporting to authorities.
🔗 Related Travel & Business Guides
- Siem Reap Travel Guide 2026
- Phnom Penh Travel Guide 2026
- Cambodia Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- How to Start a Business in Cambodia as a Foreigner
- Cambodia Visa Guide 2026
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cambodia dangerous for tourists?
No, Cambodia is generally safe. Violent crime is rare. Most issues are petty theft or overcharging. With common sense and awareness, you can avoid nearly all scams.
Are there police who speak English?
Tourist police in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap speak basic English. For serious issues, contact your embassy.
Can I use my credit card everywhere?
No. Cash (USD) is preferred at markets, tuk‑tuks, and small restaurants. Use cards only at major hotels or upscale shops.
What’s the best way to get a tuk‑tuk?
Use the PassApp or Grab app. You’ll see the fixed price and driver rating. No negotiation needed.
What should I do if a tuk‑tuk driver overcharges me?
If you agreed on a price beforehand, pay only that amount. If they demand more, walk away and call the tourist police. Using an app avoids this entirely.
📢 Disclaimer
This guide is based on common scam reports and personal experiences from travelers and businesspeople in Cambodia. Scams evolve, so always stay alert. Information is accurate as of April 2026. The author is not responsible for individual incidents.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Cambodia is a beautiful country with warm, honest people. The vast majority of tuk‑tuk drivers, market sellers, and business partners are trustworthy. By following the simple precautions in this guide – using apps for transport, securing your valuables, verifying official documents, and trusting your gut – you can focus on enjoying the temples, the food, and the investment opportunities without worry.
Remember: If it feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to say no and walk away.
Safe travels and smart business!