Scam in CambodiaShopping
Fake branded goods in Cambodia
How it works
Fake Swiss watches and pirated software are sold at low prices. The risk is paying for them while believing they are genuine.
Warning signs
- A branded watch is offered at a very low price.
- The seller cannot support a claim that the product is genuine.
How to avoid it
- Do not assume market goods are genuine because they carry a brand name.
- Use an authorised seller when authenticity matters.
- Avoid paying genuine-product prices for unverified goods.
If it happens to you
Keep proof of the seller's claims and ask for a refund if you were misled.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or resist a robbery.
- Stop further payments. Do not pay more to recover money already lost.
- Protect your accounts. Freeze missing cards, contact the issuer and lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
- Save evidence. Keep receipts, booking messages, payment records and a short account of what happened.
- Report the incident to police and the relevant business or booking provider. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government advice20202020 Review of Notorious Markets for Counterfeiting and PiracyThe US trade report identifies Phnom Penh's Central Market as a reported source of counterfeit clothing, shoes, handbags and pirated media.Read on Government advice
- Travel blogExploring Phnom Penh’s Markets – ROVING JAYThe traveller describes a tourist market selling discounted fake Western clothing alongside souvenirs.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the fake branded goods scam in Cambodia?
Fake Swiss watches and pirated software are sold at low prices. The risk is paying for them while believing they are genuine.
How can I spot it early?
A branded watch is offered at a very low price. The seller cannot support a claim that the product is genuine.
How do I avoid fake branded goods in Cambodia?
Do not assume market goods are genuine because they carry a brand name. Use an authorised seller when authenticity matters. Avoid paying genuine-product prices for unverified goods.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep proof of the seller's claims and ask for a refund if you were misled.
Where in Cambodia does this happen?
Russian Market It has been reported in Phnom Penh.
How common is this scam in Cambodia?
Occasional. Scams are plentiful in Cambodia. Common problems include tourist price markups, unclear taxi fares, border bribe demands and tours that do not match their promises. Petty theft also happens, including phone and bag snatching in Phnom Penh, although violent crime is described as fairly low overall.
Are there similar scams in Cambodia?
Yes: tourist price markups, imitation Kampot pepper, reproductions offered as antiques.
Who can I report it to?
Tourist police in Phnom Penh: call 012 942 4840 if fake monks harass you. Local police: report theft, robbery or suspected fraud. Bring any evidence and ask for a written report or reference number. Card issuer: use the issuer's official app or contact number to freeze a missing card and report disputed transactions. Bank branch: if a bank-attached ATM gives you damaged notes, ask that branch to replace them immediately. Bus company, tour seller or booking provider: report missing luggage items or services that did not match the booking. Provide tickets, receipts and written promises. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of loss. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is lost or stolen, or if you need help after a serious incident.
What number do I call in an emergency in Cambodia?
Phnom Penh tourist police, listed for harassment by fake monks: 012 942 4840.
Reviewed by @snuck