A new agreement has been signed between the UK and Cambodian governments to combat online scam centres, with the aim of better protecting the British public from fraud. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on September 23, marks the first time the two nations will work jointly to dismantle networks of illegal scam centres.
These centres, often based in Southeast Asia, are described as places where fraud is scripted and scaled to target thousands of victims using sophisticated tactics, including fake romantic relationships. The agreement will see UK and Cambodian authorities increase data sharing, coordinate actions against criminal gangs, and ensure support for trafficked foreign nationals often forced to carry out the fraud.
Lord Hanson, Minister for Fraud, stated that over two-thirds of fraud affecting the UK originates overseas, making such international agreements vital. He added that the UK will help build the capacity of Cambodian law enforcement through training in cyber investigations, digital forensics, and investigative procedures.
Both governments will also collaborate through the Global Fraud Taskforce, a joint initiative by the UK and INTERPOL, to identify suspects, dismantle scam centres, and disrupt illicit financial flows. This MoU follows joint UK and US sanctions in October against a network operating illegal scam centres in Southeast Asia, which resulted in millions of pounds in UK-based properties being frozen.