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🇰🇭 Fake Border, Airport, or Fast-Track Assistance Fee

MediumArrival FraudPublisher: MigrantIQ Safety3 min read1 reported cases

Editorially reviewedLast updated 2026-10-04Reviewed by MigrantIQ Editorial TeamOfficial reporting channel ↗

How this scam works

In Cambodia, a prevalent scam involves individuals impersonating airport staff, immigration officers, or travel agents who demand special fees for entry into the country. These scammers often approach tourists, first-time travelers, workers, and students at border crossings or airports. They may claim that paying a fee will allow you to bypass questioning, expedite your entry, or facilitate the release of important documents. This scheme exploits the confusion and anxiety that can accompany international travel, particularly for newcomers unfamiliar with local regulations or fee structures. Travelers may feel pressured into making quick decisions, believing that payment is mandatory for a smooth entry process.

What should you know about this scam?

This scam is not isolated to specific locations; it can happen at various entry points across Cambodia. Scammers usually use persuasive tactics, creating an illusion of authority and urgency. They might provide false information about the legal requirements for entering Cambodia, leading victims to believe that they must comply to avoid serious consequences.

How can you protect yourself from this scam?

To avoid falling victim to this scam, ensure that you only use official fee schedules and payment channels recognized by the Cambodian government. At airports or border checkpoints, always consult uniformed officers at official counters. If any fee is requested, ask for a printed receipt to confirm its legitimacy. Familiarizing yourself with official procedures before traveling can also help you recognize potential scams more easily.

Who should you contact if you encounter this scam?

If you encounter this scam, contact local authorities such as the Cambodian National Police or seek assistance from your embassy. Reporting these incidents can help authorities take necessary action against scammers and protect future travelers.

Red flags

Payment requested by phone or chat before arrival
Claims that refusal to pay will cause detention
No official invoice or government payment portal
Person cannot show official identification or office location
Pressure to pay immediately or risk lengthy questioning

How to protect yourself

To avoid scams related to fake fees, always verify the legitimacy of any charges before paying. Use only official sources for information about entry fees or procedures. Engage with uniformed personnel at official counters when you arrive. Keep all documentation secure and ask for receipts for any legitimate payments. Remember that you should never pay fees before confirming their validity through official channels.

What to do if targeted

- Stop communication and do not send more money or documents
- Save messages, receipts, contracts, profile links, and phone numbers
- Contact your bank or payment provider if money was sent
- Report through official fraud, police, or immigration channels

Official reporting channel →

Prevention tips

- Only pay government fees through official portals
- Do not trust guaranteed visa approvals or secret appointment slots
- Verify employer, school, agent, or landlord identities independently
- Avoid personal-account transfers and pressure tactics

Emergency & Reporting Contacts

If there is immediate danger, contact local emergency services. If money was sent, contact your bank/payment provider and official fraud reporting channels.

Sources & References

MigrantIQ scam alert record
Published 2026-05-07.
Cambodia official reporting channels
Use official reporting channels if you were targeted or lost money.

Who is targeted

touristsfirst-time travellersworkersstudents

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Scam safety FAQ

Legitimate government fees are paid through official channels with receipts. Never wire cash to personal accounts for a “guaranteed” outcome.

Collect evidence (messages, contracts), then report through your destination country’s fraud or immigration reporting channels and warn your community.