Thailand Unites with Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos in Facing Travel Scams, Getting Cheated in Unexpected Places in the Name of Tourism: Here is What You Need to Know Travel And Tour World
Thailand Unites with Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos in Facing Travel Scams, Getting Cheated in Unexpected Places in the Name of Tourism: Here is What You Need to Know
Published on October 14, 2025
SThailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos have all become hotbeds for various fraudulent schemes, ranging from street-level scams to sophisticated online fraud. Tourists are lured into traps such as overpriced tours, fake job offers, gem scams, and ATM fraud. The reality of these scams has left many travelers vulnerable, especially in regions like Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Sihanoukville, Myawaddy, and the Golden Triangle. As tourism rebounds in these countries, it’s more important than ever to stay vigilant, research your destination, and use reputable services to protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. Here’s everything you need to know to travel safely across Southeast Asia in 2026.
Cambodia: The Epicenter of Cyber Scams and Human Trafficking
Cambodia has become a hotspot for cybercrime syndicates and human trafficking, particularly in regions like Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh. Scam centers, often operating from re-purposed casinos and hotels, now drive a multi-billion-dollar industry. These centers are responsible for scamming millions of dollars annually through fraudulent schemes like romance fraud and investment scams (commonly known as “pig-butchering”). Unfortunately, these activities are often backed by organized crime, exploiting both foreign tourists and vulnerable locals. The scale of the problem is staggering, with over 100,000 victims reportedly trafficked for forced labor in scam centers. Cambodia’s Sihanoukville is particularly notorious for its online fraud operations, where unsuspecting foreigners are lured into fake job offers and coercively forced to participate in scams. Victims are often trapped in inhumane conditions, with little hope of escape. According to Amnesty International, Cambodia is enabling this underground economy, and travelers are urged to avoid these regions or proceed with caution.
Travel Tip: If you are traveling to Cambodia, avoid areas around Sihanoukville, which has gained notoriety as a scam center. Stick to well-known tourist areas like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, and always verify employment offers before committing.
Myanmar: A Dangerous Place for Tourists Seeking Employment
Myanmar’s Golden Triangle region, particularly the areas of Myawaddy and KK Park, is another area of growing concern. Scam operations in Myanmar often involve forced labor trafficking, and these activities frequently mask themselves as employment opportunities for foreigners. These scammers prey on job seekers who are promised high-paying positions but are instead coerced into participating in fraudulent online activities, including cryptocurrency scams and online gambling fraud. The KK Park in Myanmar is infamous for operating as a scam city, where tourists and local workers are forced into working on fraudulent call centers or other fraudulent operations, often with the threat of violence or legal action. Furthermore, many of these operations are connected to human trafficking rings, adding a dangerous layer to the issue.
Travel Tip: Avoid border regions like Myawaddy in Myanmar, which are notorious for scam activities. If you are seeking legitimate work opportunities in Myanmar, ensure that you work with recognized agencies and verify all employment contracts before committing.
Laos: The Golden Triangle’s Growing Scam Threat
Laos, especially the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, is rapidly becoming a hub for cybercrime syndicates. These scam centers, which operate under the guise of legitimate business operations, continue to thrive despite government crackdowns. Laos is emerging as one of the fastest-growing destinations for online fraud, including identity theft, bank fraud, and investment scams. The government’s inability to effectively shut down these operations makes Laos an increasingly risky destination for tourists. Laos has been labeled a “safe haven” for scam centers, where trafficked individuals are forced to participate in fraud operations. Despite efforts to combat these activities, such centers continue to flourish, attracting foreign workers under false pretenses.
Travel Tip: If you plan to visit Laos in 2026, avoid the Golden Triangle zone. Stick to well-established destinations like Vientiane and Luang Prabang for a safer experience. Always research your accommodation and activities thoroughly before committing.
Thailand: Street-Level Scams and Gem Scams in Bangkok
While Thailand is not as notorious for large-scale cybercrime as Cambodia or Myanmar, it still remains a hotspot for street-level tourist scams. Bangkok, especially, is infamous for its gem scams, where tourists are lured into shops and pressured into purchasing overpriced jewelry. Scammers often promise huge discounts or claim that the gems are of superior quality, only for tourists to discover they’ve been sold counterfeit products at exorbitant prices. In addition to gem scams, tuk-tuk scams are also prevalent in Bangkok, where unsuspecting tourists are convinced to take rides that end up costing much more than anticipated, often accompanied by unnecessary detours or forced stops at overpriced stores.
Travel Tip: In Bangkok, always use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps to avoid tuk-tuk scams. Be cautious of unsolicited offers for gem purchases and always inquire about prices upfront.
Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City’s Growing Scam Risks
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is one of Vietnam’s largest tourist hubs, and like other Southeast Asian cities, it has its fair share of scams. The most common types in Ho Chi Minh City are overcharging for services, particularly in restaurants, hotels, and taxis. Scam artists also frequently target tourists with fake or overpriced tours, offering sightseeing trips that turn out to be complete rip-offs. Another risk is the ATM fraud seen in Ho Chi Minh City, where skimming devices are placed on ATMs, stealing personal and financial data. These incidents are on the rise, as scammers become more adept at hiding their activities.
Travel Tip: In Ho Chi Minh City, always use reputable ATMs in well-lit, busy areas. Be cautious when booking tours or accepting unsolicited offers from street vendors.
Philippines: The Rise of Scams in Metro Manila
Metro Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, has also seen a rise in travel scams. Tourists are often duped into fake taxi rides, where drivers charge exorbitant rates, and overpriced tours that end up being a waste of time and money. Moreover, some areas of the city are notorious for petty thefts, such as pickpocketing, which can ruin an otherwise pleasant vacation. The Philippines also faces scams related to immigration fraud, where travelers are scammed into paying for fake visas or undocumented travel arrangements.
Travel Tip: Stick to official taxis or ride-sharing apps in Metro Manila to avoid overcharging. Ensure that any visa services are processed through the official government channels to avoid fraud.
Travel Tips to Avoid Scams in Southeast Asia
Research Your Destination Thoroughly: Before traveling to any Southeast Asian country, do thorough research on common scams and fraudulent activities in that region.Use Reputable Services: Always book tours, taxis, and accommodations through well-established agencies. Avoid street vendors offering deals that seem too good to be true.Be Cautious with Job Offers: If you receive unsolicited offers for employment or volunteer opportunities while traveling, always verify the legitimacy of the employer.Beware of Unsolicited Help: Be cautious if a stranger approaches you with unsolicited help or advice, especially when it involves money or transactions.Use Secure Payment Methods: Always use credit cards or secure digital payment options when making payments to avoid fraud.Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a scam or fraud, report it to local authorities or your embassy immediately.
Conclusion: Stay Safe in Southeast Asia
As Southeast Asia continues to grow as a tourism destination, it’s essential to stay alert and be aware of the scams that may tarnish your trip. Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam are just a few examples of countries where scammers are thriving. However, with proper research, caution, and the right precautions, you can protect yourself and still enjoy everything these beautiful countries have to offer. Safe travels!