Cyber Slavery: Indian Embassy Rescues Over 360 Citizens Trapped in Cambodian Scams

The Embassy of India in Phnom Penh has successfully evacuated numerous Indian nationals entrapped in elaborate scam operations in Cambodia. The effort follows the evacuation of several individuals from a notorious site known as Jinbei-4 on May 20, 2024.

The Embassy, in close collaboration with Cambodian authorities, has made the repatriation of these Indian citizens a top priority. On the day of the rescue, Cambodian officials reported that around 60 Indian nationals were transported from Sihanoukville (SHV) to Phnom Penh. These individuals are now receiving extensive support from the Embassy, including assistance with travel documents and other necessary arrangements to ensure their safe return to India.

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The urgency of the situation was highlighted on May 20, when around 300 Indians reportedly revolted against their handlers in Cambodia, leading to most of them being detained. Among those trapped were 150 young people from Visakhapatnam and its vicinity, who had been coerced for over a year into conducting cyber crimes and Ponzi scams by Chinese handlers, as confirmed by local police.

Mass Rescue Operation: Indian Embassy Reclaims Citizens from Cambodian Fraud

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To address the immediate needs of the affected individuals, a dedicated team of Embassy officials has been dispatched to Sihanoukville. Indian nationals facing similar difficulties or seeking to return home are encouraged to contact the Embassy through the emergency hotline at +855 92881676 or via email at cons.phnompenh@mea.gov.in or visa.phnompenh@mea.gov.in. A temporary control room has also been established in Sihanoukville, operational from May 21 to May 23, 2024, reachable at +855 10642777.

The Embassy has been proactive in issuing advisories to warn Indian citizens about the dangers of unauthorized agents and the risks associated with accepting employment on tourist visas. These advisories stress the importance of adhering to legal employment practices and caution against involvement in illegal cyber activities. The Embassy urges those in need of assistance to promptly contact the Embassy or the designated Cambodian hotline numbers.

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In a concerted effort to combat this issue, the Embassy has facilitated the rescue and repatriation of over 360 Indian nationals to date, ensuring their safe return to India. The Government of India and the Embassy remain steadfast in their commitment to assisting those trapped in perilous situations, extending all possible support to ensure their safety and well-being.

The Scam Unveiled

The scam operation, masquerading as a legitimate enterprise, involved a simulated stock market application. This app deceived investors into believing they were making real investments in the Indian stock market, while their funds were being siphoned off into the scammers’ accounts. Initial returns were paid out to gain trust, but eventually, the app ceased payouts, trapping the investors.

The operation’s international dimension was evident from the diversity of its workforce, which included individuals from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, India, and Cambodia. Many were lured with promises of legitimate employment opportunities, only to find themselves stripped of their passports and coerced into participating in the scam. Reports of physical assault, electric shock, and solitary confinement emerged for those who resisted, highlighting the dark reality of cyber slavery.

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The involvement of Chinese nationals as the scam bosses, employing translators from Malaysia or Cambodia, underscores the complex, international nature of these operations.

Online Vigilance and Safety Tips

In light of these revelations, authorities emphasize the importance of online vigilance. Here are some crucial recommendations to safeguard yourself from falling victim to similar cybercrimes:

• Be Wary of Enticing Online Ads: Don’t be swayed by flashy social media posts or pop-up advertisements that promise unrealistic returns on investments.
• Scrutinize Promises of High Returns: If an investment app touts exceptionally high returns, it’s a giant red flag. Legitimate investment opportunities typically offer moderate, sustainable growth.
• Double-Check Account Details: Always meticulously verify account information before transferring any money. A small mistake can result in a significant loss.
• Financial Transactions with Strangers? Proceed with Caution: Never engage in financial transactions with people you don’t know and haven’t thoroughly verified their credentials.
• Cautious on Dating Apps: Don’t get swept up in the moment on dating apps. Before making any financial commitments, confirm the other person’s identity.
• Report Cybercrime Immediately: If you suspect you’ve been a target of cybercrime, report it immediately. Contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or visit the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at https://cybercrime.gov.in to register your complaint.

For further information or assistance, Indian nationals in Cambodia are urged to contact the Embassy through the provided channels and seek guidance.

Contact Information:

• Emergency Contact No.: +855 92881676
• Email: cons.phnompenh@mea.gov.in / visa.phnompenh@mea.gov.in
• Temporary Control Room: +855 10642777 (Operational May 21-23, 2024)

The Embassy continues to monitor the situation closely and stands ready to provide any additional support necessary to aid Indian nationals in distress.

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