Legal definitions
In Cambodia, a “minor” is defined as a person under 18 years old. The legal age of consent for sexual activity is not explicitly defined, but it can be inferred through relevant laws to be 15 years old.
“Child pornography” is specifically defined. “Child sexual exploitation,” “sexually explicit conduct,” and “child sexual abuse” are not specifically defined, but the related terms “child prostitution” and “indecent assault” are outlined in relevant laws. “Enticement” is defined only in relation to child prostitution as the solicitor or facilitator of child prostitution.
Computer-generated images of CSAM and “sextortion” are not defined under Cambodian law.
Regulatory requirements/recommendations
Online platforms are required—as are all citizens of Cambodia—to report CSAM to judicial or other competent authorities when they become aware of it. According to the Law on Electronic Commerce, online platforms are specifically required to save relevant information as evidence and inform the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications of the suspected person’s identity.
A 2018 regulation requires internet service providers (not specifically online platforms) to install certain surveillance tools to enable filtering and blocking of illegal content or activity.
Online platforms are not required to review, screen, moderate, or detect online child sexual exploitation content.
Age verification requirements/recommendations
Online platforms are not required to implement any method of age verification before a user can access their services.
Parental consent requirements/recommendations
Online platforms are not required to obtain parental consent before allowing a child to access their services.
Legal remedies for child victims
Remedies for victims of online child sexual exploitation are available in Cambodia. Online platforms must remove information related to CSAM from their systems when the existence of CSAM is brought to its attention. Injunctions, court orders, and other civil remedies may be available against an online platform with exploitative material. Parents or guardians may seek damages on behalf of a child victim against offenders.
There is no government-funded victim compensation program, and victims are not entitled to notification when an offender is arrested for distributing CSAM in which the child is depicted.
"Safety by Design" requirements
Online platforms are not required to incorporate “Safety by Design” into their systems.