Scam in CambodiaOn the street
Fake monks asking tourists for money in Cambodia
How it works
People posing as monks approach tourists for money. Real monks do not walk around begging from tourists.
Warning signs
- Someone dressed as a monk directly begs from tourists.
- They keep pressing or harass you after you refuse.
How to avoid it
- Do not give money to someone pressuring tourists this way.
- Ignore the approach and keep walking.
If it happens to you
If harassed, call the tourist police on 012 942 4840.
- 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.
- TripadvisorCambodia ForumYet another warning. - Cambodia ForumTravellers describe people they identified as fake monks soliciting donations and offering bracelets or blessings in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.Read on Tripadvisor
- WebAngkorHUBPractical InfoThe local information page warns visitors about people posing as monks to request money or sell items.Read on Web
Questions
What is the fake monks asking tourists for money scam in Cambodia?
People posing as monks approach tourists for money. Real monks do not walk around begging from tourists.
How can I spot it early?
Someone dressed as a monk directly begs from tourists. They keep pressing or harass you after you refuse.
How do I avoid fake monks asking tourists for money in Cambodia?
Do not give money to someone pressuring tourists this way. Ignore the approach and keep walking.
What should I do if it happens to me?
If harassed, call the tourist police on 012 942 4840.
Where in Cambodia does this happen?
Tourist areas 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: persistent ride and souvenir selling, friendly invitation leads to a rigged card game, new friends ask for money for sick relatives.
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