Street Scams in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street 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
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in Phnom Penh
How it works
Criminals on motorbikes snatch phones, bags, and cameras from pedestrians and tuk-tuk passengers in Phnom Penh. Australian Smartraveller and the US State Department both flag this as one of the most common crimes against visitors, with incidents increasing in 2024.
How it works
Vendors near the Central Market and tourist guesthouses sell low-quality or fake gems — synthetic rubies, glass 'sapphires,' and plated jewellery — at prices presented as significant deals. Purchases cannot be refunded.
See all scams in Phnom Penh
10 total warnings across all categories