Background
On 25 March 2026, the General Department of Digital Technology and Media issued a public warning concerning online sales scams conducted through social media platforms. According to the notice, technical officers observed that bad actors were promoting goods at unusually low prices in order to deceive members of the public and obtain money fraudulently.
Scope of Application
The warning applies to members of the public engaging in online shopping through social media, particularly where sellers advertise products at prices significantly below normal market levels. It also concerns suspected fraudulent seller accounts and online content used to facilitate deception.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The department identified several common scam tactics:
- Use of fake images or videos, including third-party images or videos with Khmer-language voiceover added.
- Offering suspiciously low prices to pressure customers into making immediate purchase decisions.
- Requiring customers to pay deposits or transfer payment before delivery, after which the seller may close the account or block the victim.
The department advised the public to take the following precautions:
- Verify the source carefully, including comments, reviews from previous customers, and the seller’s prior account activity.
- Choose cash on delivery where possible.
- Check market prices and treat large price discrepancies as a possible sign of counterfeit goods or fraud.
The notice further advised that where fraud is suspected, individuals should capture screenshots of all evidence and seller account information, report the account, and notify competent authorities for further action.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
This notice serves as an official public advisory on online consumer fraud risks in social media commerce. Businesses operating legitimate online sales channels may face greater scrutiny from consumers regarding account history, customer feedback, and payment methods. The advisory also indicates the importance of evidence preservation and reporting in suspected fraud cases.
Official Source
General Department of Digital Technology and Media, public notice published on 25 March 2026 via official Facebook page.
Related Developments
This topic is part of ongoing policy and enforcement developments related to cybercrime and online fraud in Cambodia, including scam investigations, regulatory responses, and cross-border cooperation.
