The internet has become a crucial part of daily life, enabling fast and convenient communication. However, with the rise of digital communication platforms, online scams have also increased. One messaging app that has gained significant popularity among both legitimate users and scammers is Telegram.
In Cambodia, Telegram is widely used for business, entertainment, and social connections, but it has also become a hotspot for scammers looking to exploit unsuspecting users. This blog post explores why Telegram is an attractive tool for scammers, how you can protect yourself, and what to do when contacted by a stranger on Telegram.
What Is Telegram?
Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging app known for its security, speed, and user-friendly features. It allows users to send messages, make voice and video calls, create groups and channels, and share media files. Launched in 2013 by Pavel and Nikolai Durov, Telegram has grown to be one of the most used messaging platforms worldwide.
How Is Telegram Being Used?
Telegram is used for various purposes, including:
- Personal communication – Chatting with friends and family.
- Business and marketing – Many companies and influencers use Telegram channels to share updates.
- News and information sharing – News agencies and organizations use Telegram to deliver instant updates.
- Crypto and trading discussions – Many cryptocurrency traders use Telegram for real-time discussions.
- Online communities and entertainment – Various groups are created for gaming, memes, and hobbies.
Who Are Likely Using Telegram?
Telegram is used by a wide range of people, including:
- Business owners and marketers
- Crypto traders and investors
- Journalists and activists
- Students and educators
- Scammers and cybercriminals
What Can You Do With Telegram?
Telegram offers multiple features that make it useful for users, such as:
- Text messaging and voice calls
- File sharing (documents, videos, images, etc.)
- Large group chats and channels
- Self-destructing messages for privacy
- Bot automation for customer support or marketing
- Secret chats with end-to-end encryption
Why Do Scammers Like Using Telegram to Scam Online in Cambodia?
While Telegram provides many benefits, it also has features that attract scammers. Below are some key reasons why scammers prefer using Telegram:
1. Anonymity & Privacy
Telegram allows users to register with just a phone number, which can be hidden from others. Scammers can create fake profiles and operate anonymously, making it harder to track them down.
2. End-to-End Encryption
While not enabled by default, Telegram offers a “Secret Chat” feature that encrypts messages. This makes it difficult for authorities or victims to retrieve message history or track fraudulent activities.
3. Large Group & Channel Features
Scammers can create public or private groups and channels with thousands of members to spread scams quickly. They use these platforms to promote fake investment schemes, job scams, or phishing attempts.
4. Self-Destructing Messages
Scammers use Telegram’s self-destructing messages to erase their tracks. These messages disappear after a set time, making it difficult for victims to collect evidence.
5. Bot Automation
Scammers use Telegram bots to automate scams, fake giveaways, and crypto fraud. Bots can send phishing links, impersonate customer support, and even generate fake account balances to deceive victims.
6. Lax Moderation
Compared to platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, Telegram has fewer restrictions and less strict moderation. Scams often run longer before they are reported or taken down.
7. Crypto & Dark Web Links
Telegram is widely used in crypto communities, making it a prime target for crypto scams. Fraudsters promote fake investment opportunities, pump-and-dump schemes, and phishing links that steal cryptocurrency wallets.
8. Law Enforcement Evasion
Since Telegram is decentralized and does not store chats (except for cloud chats), law enforcement agencies face challenges in tracking and shutting down scammers.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Being Scammed?
Scammers often use psychological tactics to trick their victims. Here are some ways to stay safe on Telegram:
- Never share personal information – Avoid sharing sensitive details like passwords, bank information, or OTP codes with anyone on Telegram.
- Be cautious of unsolicited messages – If you receive a message from a stranger promising high profits or job offers, be skeptical.
- Verify contacts – If a person claims to be from a company, verify their identity through official channels before proceeding.
- Avoid clicking unknown links – Many scams involve phishing links that steal login credentials.
- Use Telegram’s privacy settings – Hide your phone number, enable two-step verification, and restrict who can add you to groups.
- Report suspicious accounts – If you encounter scammers, report them to Telegram and block them immediately.
- Stay updated on scam tactics – Follow cybersecurity updates to learn about new types of scams and how to avoid them.
What You Should Do When a Stranger Contacts You via Telegram
If a stranger messages you on Telegram, take the following steps:
- Ignore and do not engage – If the message seems suspicious, do not reply.
- Check their profile – Look for signs of a fake profile, such as no profile picture or a newly created account.
- Do a reverse image search – If they send images claiming to be someone, use a reverse image search to check if the photos are stolen from elsewhere.
- Block and report – If the user is suspicious, block them and report them to Telegram.
- Warn others – Inform your friends and family about potential scams to help them stay safe.
Conclusion
Telegram is a powerful communication tool, but it is also a playground for scammers. The app’s anonymity, encryption, self-destructing messages, and lack of strict moderation make it attractive for cybercriminals. In Cambodia, scammers exploit Telegram’s features to run job scams, fake investments, and crypto frauds.
By being cautious, enabling security settings, and staying informed, you can protect yourself from scams. Always verify unknown contacts, avoid sharing personal data, and report suspicious activities.
If you spot any scam, phising or fruad online you can file a complain to General Commissariat of National Police: https://hotline.police.gov.kh/