On 23 April 2026, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, through its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), announced a significant sanctions action targeting a transnational fraud network operating out of Southeast Asia. The measures include the designation of Cambodian senator Kok An and 28 associated individuals and entities linked to large scale crypto romance scams.
According to the Treasury, the network orchestrated sophisticated digital asset fraud schemes targeting victims primarily in the United States through social engineering tactics. These schemes involved building trust through online relationships before directing victims to invest in fraudulent cryptocurrency platforms. The operations were conducted from casino and commercial compounds in Cambodia, with indications of human trafficking and forced labour supporting the scam activities.
All designated persons have been added to the Specially Designated Nationals List. As a result, any property or interests in property subject to U.S. jurisdiction are blocked. U.S. persons are prohibited from engaging in transactions with the listed parties, and non U.S. entities may face secondary sanctions exposure where relevant links exist.
This development highlights the expanding scope of sanctions enforcement into cyber enabled financial crime and reflects the increasing convergence of anti money laundering, sanctions compliance, and human rights risks. Trade compliance professionals should reassess counterparty due diligence, particularly in higher risk jurisdictions and sectors involving digital assets, payment intermediaries, and complex cross border transactions.
Official press release from OFAC: