Cambodia's parliament has passed comprehensive legislation aimed at dismantling online scam centers that have proliferated throughout the country in recent years. The new law imposes severe penalties, including sentences of up to life in prison for those convicted of operating or participating in cybercrime operations.

The legislation represents Cambodia's most significant effort to address criticism that the country has become a regional hub for online fraud operations. These scam centers have typically targeted victims across Asia and beyond through various digital schemes, including romance scams, investment fraud, and cryptocurrency-related crimes.

The new law establishes harsh penalties designed to deter criminal organizations from establishing operations within Cambodia's borders. Sentences can range from substantial prison terms to life imprisonment depending on the severity and scope of the criminal enterprise.

Cambodian lawmakers framed the legislation as necessary to protect the country's international reputation and combat transnational organized crime. The scam operations have drawn international attention and pressure from neighboring countries whose citizens have been targeted by Cambodia-based criminal networks.

The legislation comes as regional governments have increased cooperation to combat cross-border cybercrime operations that have exploited regulatory gaps and enforcement challenges in Southeast Asia.