The Thai Government urges the public to exercise caution when answering unknown calls and warns of six most common tricks used by scammers.
On 17 January 2024, Mr. Chai Wacharonke, the Government spokesperson, expressed concern over call center scams. Hoping that the public would remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to scams, he also discussed the six most common tricks used by scammers to lure victims to
give up their money, as reported by the Bank of Thailand, as follows:
- Bank account seizure/ credit card debt collection: This is the most frequently used scam by fraudsters, as it creates fear and often leads to money transfers.
- Drug trafficking or money laundering suspicion: Scammers falsely claim that victim’s bank accounts are involved in illegal activities, prompting them to transfer money for verification.
- Tax return scam: Scammers pose as Revenue Department officers, promising tax return, and instruct victims to transfer money at ATMs under false pretenses.
- Prize scam: Victims are deceived into transferring a fee for taxes in order to claim their supposed prize.
- Bank impersonation scams: Scammers pretend to be bank representatives and request personal information from victims.
- Accidental deposit/transfer: Scammers claim to have accidentally transferred funds to the victim’s account and persuade them to transfer the money back. In reality, the victim’s account may be used to conceal illegal funds or serve as a transit point for money acquired from other victims.
To prevent falling victim to scams, Mr. Chai urges everyone to exercise caution when answering calls from unfamiliar numbers. If there is any suspicion, it is crucial to rethink, halt the conversation, research the agencies the callers claim to represent, and fact-check by calling them. In the case of an accidental transaction, refrain from transferring money and contact the bank immediately.
“Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin prioritizes proactive efforts to prevent and combat cybercrimes while also raising awareness among the public”, Mr. Chai added, expressing confidence that the above information will help the public stay alert and one step ahead of scammers.
Those who have fallen victim to scams should gather all the information and evidence, then report to their local police station. Alternatively, they can call the High-Tech Crime Division Hotline at 1441 or report online through https://www.thaipoliceonline.com.
