Money & ATM Scams in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Card skimming, currency exchange fraud, dynamic currency conversion, and cash cons. Below are the money & atm scams scams reported in Phnom Penh — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Luang Prabang, Hoi An, and Koh Samui.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
2
Money & ATM Scams Scams
10
Total in Phnom Penh
How it works
Unofficial money changers near the Central Market and riverside tourist areas give fake bills mixed with legitimate currency, use sleight-of-hand to reduce count, or quote falsely favorable rates then shortchange tourists at handoff.
How it works
Money changers operating near Psar Thmei (Central Market) and along the surrounding streets use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists during currency exchanges. Common techniques include counting out bills quickly and palming a note, handing back a stack with a low-denomination bill on top and bottom concealing fewer bills inside, or quoting one rate verbally and applying a worse rate when counting out the cash. The busy, noisy market environment creates distraction that facilitates the manipulation.
See all scams in Phnom Penh
10 total warnings across all categories