Classic scams at Angkor
"The temple is closed today"
A stranger (sometimes in a tuk-tuk, sometimes on foot) approaches you near a temple and tells you it is "closed this morning for a ceremony" — but that he knows another equally beautiful place, a shop, or an off-the-beaten-path attraction. Do not follow him. The Angkor temples do not have unannounced impromptu closures. Check at the entrance directly.
Children selling / "the school"
Children sell books, bracelets, or postcards at the entrance of the temples. Behind some of them, exploitation networks exist. If you wish to give, prefer recognized local organizations rather than buying from children outside of school.
Scams at the airport
Unofficial taxis
At the arrivals exit of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports, men in civilian clothes or makeshift uniforms offer taxis for $30-50 for a ride that should cost $8-12. Ignore any offers inside the terminal. Go outside, connect to the airport's free Wi-Fi, and order a Grab.
Currency exchange at the airport
Official currency exchange offices at the airport offer acceptable rates. However, men who approach you before customs or in the corridors to "change your euros now" offer unfavorable rates. Ignore them — you will find ABA and Acleda ATMs at the airport itself.
Pickpocketing and snatch theft
Phone theft from a tuk-tuk
The most common theft in Cambodia: a scooter approaches a moving tuk-tuk and snatches the phone from the passenger's hand (or from their pocket or open bag). This phenomenon is particularly real in Phnom Penh. Do not take out your phone in an open tuk-tuk, especially at night. Keep your bags on the inside of the vehicle.
Pickpockets in markets
Crowded markets (Psar Thmei in Phnom Penh, Psar Chas in Siem Reap) are areas to watch out for. A crossbody bag worn in front, a phone in the front pocket — basic precautions are sufficient.
Scams to absolutely avoid
Drugs
Cambodia is not 1980s Thailand. Drug laws are strict, and prison sentences are long. Police (or people posing as such) sometimes organize "operations" where the substance was sold to you by someone working with them. The unofficial fine is then "negotiated" on the spot. Avoid this completely.
Fake monks
Men in saffron robes approach tourists, offer a blessing, tie a bracelet, and then demand a "donation" sometimes aggressively. Real Khmer Buddhist monks do not solicit tourists on the street.
The "casino" / "local friend" scam
A very friendly stranger befriends you, takes you to their family for a meal, then to a casino or a card game where you are "sure to win." This is a well-documented elaborate scam in Southeast Asia. Be wary of friendships that are too quick and too generous.
What is actually safe
To put things into perspective: physical assaults against tourists are extremely rare in Cambodia. Walking at night in the center of Phnom Penh or Siem Reap does not pose any particular danger. Rural areas are generally very safe. The level of security is comparable to that of most Southeast Asian destinations.
🚨 In case of trouble
Cambodian National Police: 117. Ambulance: 119. For tourists, the tourist police station in Siem Reap (near Angkor Wat) is usually more responsive. Keep your embassy's number: French Embassy in Cambodia: +855 23 430 020.