Scam in CambodiaShopping
Reproductions offered as antiques in Cambodia
How it works
Most items sold as Cambodian antiques are reproductions. Paying extra because a seller claims an item is old can leave you with an ordinary copy.
Warning signs
- The price depends heavily on an unsupported claim about the item's age.
- The seller cannot explain or support its history.
How to avoid it
- Treat antique claims cautiously.
- Buy reproductions only at a price you are happy to pay for a copy.
- Do not pay a premium based only on a seller's story.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt and any written claims. Request a refund if the item was falsely described.
- 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.
Questions
What is the reproductions offered as antiques scam in Cambodia?
Most items sold as Cambodian antiques are reproductions. Paying extra because a seller claims an item is old can leave you with an ordinary copy.
How can I spot it early?
The price depends heavily on an unsupported claim about the item's age. The seller cannot explain or support its history.
How do I avoid reproductions offered as antiques in Cambodia?
Treat antique claims cautiously. Buy reproductions only at a price you are happy to pay for a copy. Do not pay a premium based only on a seller's story.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt and any written claims. Request a refund if the item was falsely described.
Where in Cambodia does this happen?
Antique and souvenir sellers
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, fake branded goods.
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