Cyber Crime
Government Issues Advisory Against Cyber Slavery in Cambodia Involving Indian Citizens
On March 30, 2024, the Indian government had earlier issued a crucial advisory to warn citizens about the risks of cyber slavery and illegal job scams in Cambodia, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proper verification of employment offers.
NEW DELHI: The Embassy of India in Cambodia has issued warnings and advisories to Indian nationals regarding deceptive job opportunities in Cambodia that involve illegal activities such as cyber crimes and human trafficking. Randhir Jaiswal, the Official Spokesperson, had highlighted the ongoing plight of Indian nationals being lured under false pretenses of lucrative jobs, only to find themselves coerced into undertaking unlawful online financial scams.
250 Indian Victims Rescued in Recent Months
In a concerted effort to combat these fraudulent schemes, the Indian Embassy in Cambodia has collaborated closely with Cambodian authorities, resulting in the successful rescue and repatriation of approximately 250 Indians in recent months, with 75 of these rescues occurring in just the last three months. These efforts underscore a broader commitment by the embassy to safeguard Indian citizens abroad and to actively warn against such scams through regular advisories.
Ambassador @devyani_K and officials met with Indian nationals who were victims of job scam. Their stories highlight the need to raise awareness about job scams & protect vulnerable individuals. Let's join hands to spread awareness & prevent others from falling into these traps. pic.twitter.com/x5TB6L5si6
— India in Cambodia (@indembcam) April 18, 2024
Potential job seekers are strongly advised to verify the legitimacy of employment offers and to only pursue opportunities in Cambodia through authorized agents. The embassy has cautioned Indian nationals against engaging in activities that contradict the terms of their visas, specifically warning against seeking employment while on a ‘tourist visa’.
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For Indian nationals needing assistance or more information, the Embassy of India in Phnom Penh can be contacted directly via email at cons.phnompenh@mea.gov.in or visa.phnompenh@mea.gov.in. Additionally, they have provided an emergency contact number: +855 92881676.
Modus Operandi of the Scammers:
- False Job Promises: Scammers lure skilled tech workers with offers of high-paying IT jobs abroad, particularly in Southeast Asia.
- Deceptive Recruitment: Victims are often misled about their actual work destination. They believe they are heading to reputable companies in countries like Thailand or the Philippines.
- Seizing Documents: Upon arrival in countries like Cambodia, victims’ travel documents are confiscated to prevent them from leaving.
- Forced Labor: Victims are compelled to work long hours (up to 16 hours per day) under harsh conditions.
- Cybercrime Activities: These workers are forced into committing various cybercrimes, such as online scams and attacks on governmental and non-governmental organizations.
- Isolation and Control: Scammers isolate victims to control them more effectively, often keeping them in confined environments where they have little contact with the outside world.
- Threats and Coercion: Victims are frequently threatened with violence or severe consequences if they do not comply or attempt to escape.
Steps to Avoid Falling for Such Fraud:
- Verify Job Offers: Always verify job offers through official channels. Contact the hiring company directly using contact details from their official website.
- Research the Recruiter: Look into the reputation of the recruitment agency or recruiter. Check for online reviews and testimonials.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult with legal professionals or employment advisors before accepting job offers abroad, especially for positions that require relocation to less familiar countries.
- Confirm Work Conditions: Request detailed information about work conditions, hours, and legal rights in the destination country. Ensure this information is included in the contract.
- Secure Personal Documents: Never hand over personal documents like passports or identification cards to employers or recruiters.
- Stay Connected: Maintain regular contact with family and trusted friends after relocating. Share your whereabouts and any concerns about the job or living conditions.
- Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with the labor laws and rights in the destination country. Know the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate.
- Use Government Resources: Engage with government or reputable international agencies that offer advice and support for workers abroad.
- Report Suspicious Offers: If a job offer seems too good to be true or involves questionable practices, report it to local authorities or anti-trafficking organizations.
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common fraudulent schemes and read up on personal accounts or news stories of similar frauds.