“Stay alert when shopping online in Thailand! Scammers are using complex techniques to deceive victims, resulting in over 365,000 reported scam cases and 45 billion baht in damage. #ThailandScams #OnlineShoppingFraud #StayProtected”
Soaring Scam Cases in Thailand
In the past 18 months, more than 365,000 scam cases have been reported in Thailand, with the total damage amounting to a staggering 45 billion baht. This information was revealed by deputy government spokesman Karom Phonphonklang in response to the cumulative complaint data available on the Royal Thai Police (RTP) website, “thaipoliceonline.com”.
The alarming number of scam-related complaints has prompted the government to issue a warning to the public to remain cautious against scammers who are increasingly resorting to complex techniques to deceive their victims.
Common Scams and Their Impact
The data indicated that online shopping fraud was the most common type of scam, with 100,694 cases causing a total loss of 1.9 billion baht. Other prevalent scams include:
- Loan scams (33,517 cases)
- Investment scams (22,740 cases)
- Threatening scams by call centers (20,474 cases)
- Identity impersonation to encourage money transfers (9,664 cases)
- Duping victims into transferring money for a reward (8,697 cases)
- Online shopping fraud (8,107 cases)
- Encouraging victims to install suspicious apps (4,786 cases)
- Inputting fake data into a computer system (2,972 cases)
- Romance scams (2,167 cases)
- Digital asset fraud (1,229 cases)
- Computer hacking (79 cases)
These scams have led to a combined damage of 45.7 billion baht, and 167,347 mule accounts worth 11.25 billion baht have been frozen.
Enhancing Cybersecurity Awareness
Despite the government’s encouragement for people to improve their cybersecurity, many are still falling victim to scammers. Karom has warned the public to be cautious of fake online complaint websites that attempt to trick complainants into clicking on suspicious links.
To file a legitimate online complaint, people should only use the official “thaipoliceonline.com” website. Additionally, the public can contact the “1441” hotline or “081-866-3000” for more information.
Recent Scam-Related Arrest
In a related incident, a 41-year-old Cambodian, Saruon Loem, was arrested by Sa Kaeo Provincial Police and Klong Luk Police at the Rong Kluea border market in Aranyaprathet district of Sa Kaeo. He was caught attempting to smuggle 13.5 million baht in cash into Cambodia.
Loem claimed that he was hired by a compatriot called Mr. Pia to receive and smuggle money from a Thai bank manager, earning a monthly salary of 10,000 baht.
Staying Alert and Informed
Given the surge in scam cases in Thailand, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and informed about potential threats. By being aware of common scams and staying up-to-date with cybersecurity practices, people can take steps to protect themselves and minimize the risk of falling victim to scammers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How many scam cases have been reported in Thailand in the past 18 months, and what is the total damage?
In the past 18 months, Thailand has seen over 365,000 reported scam cases, amounting to a total damage of 45 billion baht.
Q2: What are some common scams prevalent in Thailand?
Some common scams in Thailand include online shopping fraud, loan scams, investment scams, threatening scams by call centers, identity impersonation for money transfers, duping victims for rewards, encouraging victims to install suspicious apps, inputting fake data into computer systems, romance scams, digital asset fraud, and computer hacking.
Q3: How can one report a scam or file a complaint in Thailand?
To file a legitimate online complaint, individuals should use the official “thaipoliceonline.com” website. Additionally, they can contact the “1441” hotline or “081-866-3000” for more information.
