Indonesian Online Scam Victims in Cambodia – In a recent development highlighting the persistent issue of online job scam targeting Indonesian citizens abroad, twelve individuals who fell victim to such schemes in Cambodia have returned to Indonesia. This repatriation underscores the continued efforts of the Indonesian government and its embassy in Phnom Penh to assist and bring home the growing number of Indonesians trapped in these fraudulent operations.
The victims were lured to Cambodia with promises of lucrative job opportunities, often advertised online with minimal requirements and high salaries. Upon arrival, they were forced to work in online scam centers, engaging in various fraudulent activities targeting individuals back in Indonesia and potentially other countries. These operations often involve harsh working conditions, including long hours and intense pressure to meet targets.
The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh has been actively involved in assisting these victims, providing necessary support and facilitating their return home. This latest repatriation is a testament to the ongoing coordination between the embassy, Cambodian authorities, and various Indonesian agencies to address the surge in online scam cases affecting Indonesian nationals in Cambodia.
The number of Indonesians falling victim to these scam in Cambodia has seen a dramatic increase. The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh reported handling over 1,300 cases related to Indonesian citizens in the first quarter of 2025 alone, with a staggering 85% of these linked to online fraud. This represents a significant jump compared to previous years, signaling an alarming trend despite repeated warnings from the government and extensive media coverage.
While the return of these twelve individuals offers a glimmer of hope, the situation remains critical. Many more Indonesians are believed to be still trapped in these scam operations in Cambodia. The Indonesian government continues to urge its citizens to exercise extreme caution when considering job offers abroad, particularly those that seem too good to be true. Efforts to enhance digital literacy and public awareness about these scams are also being intensified to prevent further victimization.