Scam in CambodiaChanging money
High guesthouse cheque-cashing commissions in Cambodia
How it works
Guesthouses may charge high commissions to cash travellers' cheques. This can leave you receiving less cash than expected.
Warning signs
- The commission is not clear before you hand over the cheque.
- The final cash amount is not stated.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the full commission and final payout first.
- Carry enough cash for your visit and onward travel.
- Do not rely on a single cash-access option.
If it happens to you
Ask for a breakdown of the commission. Challenge any fee that differs from what was agreed.
- 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.
Questions
What is the high guesthouse cheque-cashing commissions scam in Cambodia?
Guesthouses may charge high commissions to cash travellers' cheques. This can leave you receiving less cash than expected.
How can I spot it early?
The commission is not clear before you hand over the cheque. The final cash amount is not stated.
How do I avoid high guesthouse cheque-cashing commissions in Cambodia?
Ask for the full commission and final payout first. Carry enough cash for your visit and onward travel. Do not rely on a single cash-access option.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for a breakdown of the commission. Challenge any fee that differs from what was agreed.
Where in Cambodia does this happen?
Guesthouses that cash travellers' cheques It has been reported in Banlung.
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: damaged notes passed to tourists, poor exchange rates when spending Thai baht.
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