Bangkok – Thailand has escalated its campaign against transnational scam operations by ordering an immediate shutdown of all internet and mobile services to Cambodia, marking the most drastic telecommunications measure ever taken between the neighboring nations. The unprecedented move targets criminal networks exploiting cross-border connectivity for fraud schemes, the Bangkok Post reported.

Cambodian Workers Exit Thailand Amid Border Security Crackdown

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) mandated all 14 Thai telecom providers to terminate broadband and mobile data transmission to Cambodia within 15 days. Deputy Secretary-General Trairat Viriyasirikul confirmed the complete cutoff will first affect border zones like Aranyaprathet district opposite Cambodia’s Poipet casino hub, with phased restrictions expanding nationwide.

Under emergency regulations, Thai operators must deploy mobile SIM registration vehicles for border residents. Any remaining services require pre-approved business justification, while SIM cards sold for Cambodian use demand verified user identification. Telecom companies are now obligated to submit biweekly sales reports to the NBTC.

Thailand’s telecom regulator has ordered all Thai operators to stop providing broadband and mobile internet connections to Cambodia, while requiring reports of SIM card sales every 15 days.

Listen or get the full story in the 1st comment. pic.twitter.com/X6POuD0smz

— Bangkok Post (@BangkokPostNews) June 26, 2025

Police Inspector-General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot reported an immediate drop in cybercrime cases following preliminary border closures. Authorities are building cases against two Poipet high-rises allegedly housing scam operations and investigating Cambodian financial firm Huione Group—blacklisted by the U.S. in May for money laundering.

The measures come amid frozen cooperation between Thai and Cambodian law enforcement, with Pol Gen Thatchai noting Phnom Penh’s silence since border tensions began. Analysts suggest the telecom blackout pressures Cambodia to act against scam compounds benefiting from official corruption.

Thailand Seals All Cambodia Border Crossings in Security Crackdown

This developing situation may disrupt legitimate cross-border commerce and communication while cybercrime investigations continue.

-Thailand News (TN)