Security Alert: Telegram Account of Senior Royal Advisor Samdech Say Chhum Compromised by Hackers

Sok Sabay — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:17:38 +0000

PHNOM PENH — Cambodian authorities have launched an urgent investigation after cybercriminals successfully hijacked the Telegram account of Samdech Vibol Sena Pheakdey Say Chhum, a high-ranking member of the Supreme Privy Council to the King.

The breach, confirmed on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, has prompted an immediate warning from the official’s assistant team. In a statement provided to local media, aides confirmed that criminals now have full control over the account associated with the former Senate President’s phone number.

Public Warning: Do Not Engage with Fraudulent Messages The public is strongly advised to disregard any messages sent from Samdech Say Chhum’s Telegram account. “Any message claiming to be from Samdech Say Chhum is fraudulent and the work of criminals,” the assistant team stated.

The hackers are expected to use the high-profile identity to solicit funds, spread misinformation, or launch further phishing attacks against other government officials.

Police Investigation Underway Following the incident, a formal complaint has been filed with the Phnom Penh Municipal Police. Special units from the Anti-Technology Crime Department are currently working to trace the hackers and regain control of the digital assets.

This incident follows a string of high-profile cyber-impersonations in early 2026, highlighting a growing trend where sophisticated hacking groups target the “inner circle” of the Cambodian government to destabilize digital communication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Samdech Say Chhum?

Samdech Say Chhum is a prominent Cambodian statesman who served as the President of the Senate from 2015 to 2024. He is currently a member of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King.

What should I do if I receive a message from Samdech Say Chhum’s Telegram?

Do not click on any links, do not provide personal information, and do not send money. The account has been officially confirmed as hacked. You should block the account and report it to Telegram as “hacked/spam.”

How are Cambodian authorities responding to this hack?

The Phnom Penh Municipal Police and the Anti-Technology Crime Department have opened an investigation to identify the criminals and prosecute them according to the Kingdom’s cyber laws.

Is this part of a larger hacking trend in Cambodia in 2026?

Yes. There has been a rise in “impersonation-as-a-service” attacks where hackers target senior officials and business leaders to commit financial fraud or gather intelligence.

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Security Alert: Telegram Account of Senior Royal Advisor Samdech Say Chhum Compromised by Hackers