Fake Charity Scams in Cambodia
Fraudulent charity and orphanage appeals exploiting Cambodia's development sector reputation to steal donations from well-meaning foreigners.
Part of: Fake Charity Scams
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Cambodia has a documented history of charity and voluntourism fraud, including fake orphanages that solicit donations and volunteer fees for children who are not actually orphans. While the specific orphanage model has attracted significant international attention, broader fake charity fraud continues, exploiting Cambodia's status as a major recipient of international development funding.
Donors in English-speaking countries who have visited Cambodia or have an interest in the region are the primary targets of these appeals.
How this scam works on Cambodia
Donors receive social media appeals from Cambodia-based organisations displaying compelling photos of children or disaster-affected communities. The organisation has a professional website but no verifiable registration with the Ministry of Interior Cambodia or any international transparency body.
Orphanage voluntourism schemes recruit participants who pay fees to volunteer, with marketing suggesting their presence directly helps the children. Some schemes cycle children in and out of the facility specifically to maintain donor and volunteer interest.
Emergency appeals following Cambodia's periodic floods collect donations through newly created PayPal accounts or Facebook fundraisers with no institutional accountability.
Common red flags
- Charity cannot provide a Ministry of Interior Cambodia registration number
- Orphanage or children's charity soliciting donations and volunteer placements simultaneously
- Emergency appeal through a newly created social media account
- Donation requested to a personal PayPal or bank account
- No annual reports, financial statements, or named international partner auditors
- Organisation was established recently with no track record
How to protect yourself
- Verify NGO registration with the Cambodian Ministry of Interior NGO Department
- Use established international humanitarian organisations for disaster response in Cambodia
- Research any orphanage-type charity through organisations like LICADHO Cambodia before donating or volunteering
- Ask for registration certificates and audited accounts before donating significant sums
- Check the charity on Charity Navigator, GuideStar, or an equivalent international database
How to report it
- Report fraudulent NGO claims to the Cambodian Ministry of Interior NGO Department
- Alert the Cambodia Cyber Crime Department for online fraud
- Report to your local consumer protection authority if based abroad
Frequently asked questions
How can I verify a Cambodian charity is legitimate before donating?
The Ministry of Interior Cambodia maintains a list of registered NGOs. Ask the organisation for their registration number and verify it through the Ministry. Internationally credible organisations also appear on platforms like NGO Aid Map or Charity Navigator. If neither is available, exercise significant caution.