(Phnom Penh): The International Conference on Combating Online Scams (ICCOS-2026) entered its second and final day on Thursday (Sep. 24), focusing on national efforts, challenges and future cooperation against transnational scam networks.

Held under the theme “Acting Together towards Breaking the Chain and Eradication of Online Scams,” the conference brings together governments, international organisations, law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, technology companies and other stakeholders.

The second day features a panel titled “Countries’ Efforts in Combating Online Scams: Progress, Challenges, and the Way Forward,” with officials from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam sharing experiences and approaches.

Discussions focus on strengthening practical cooperation in information sharing, law enforcement, capacity building, prevention, victim protection and efforts to disrupt illicit financial flows.

Neth Savoeun, Deputy Prime Minister and Vice Chairman of Cambodia’s Commission on Combating Online Scams, is scheduled to deliver the closing remarks.

Cambodia’s hosting of ICCOS-2026 comes amid growing concern about the global reach and sophistication of online scam networks, which are increasingly connected with human trafficking, forced labour, money laundering, illicit financial flows and the misuse of emerging technologies.

The Royal Government reiterated that Cambodia is not a safe haven for online scams but has itself been a victim of the transnational crimes, which has significantly damaged the country’s reputation. Under Prime Minister Hun Manet, the government has intensified enforcement efforts aimed at dismantling scam networks operating in the kingdom.

Cambodia has also strengthened its legal framework through the Law on Combating Online Scams, enacted in April 2026, which introduces tougher penalties for offences related to online scams and extends liability to masterminds, accomplices and owners of locations or properties used in such operations.
=FRESH NEWS