Khon Kaen police issues urgent warning against online fraud

In a bid to tackle the rising tide of online fraud, Khon Kaen Police Station took an unprecedented step, adorning its exterior with colossal signs standing up to 3 metres tall.

These giant warnings, unveiled yesterday, February 28, aim to arm citizens with crucial advice on dodging the traps set by cunning scammers.

With phrases like: Do not believe, Do not be rushed, Do not transfer, and Do not click on links, these towering reminders serve as a beacon of caution amidst the digital age’s treacherous waters.

Victims of online fraud, phone 1441, implored another sign, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Police Colonel Yotsawat Kaewsuebthanyanit, the superintendent of Mueang police, shed light on the necessity of this bold move, citing a staggering influx of over 2,000 complaints from victims this year alone. Last year’s toll surpassed 5,000, painting a grim picture of the pervasive threat posed by cybercriminals, reported Bangkok Post.

Pol. Col. Yotsawat emphasised the proactive stance taken by the Mueang Police Station.

“By plastering these signs, we aim to arm our residents with knowledge, exposing the deceptive tactics employed by fraudsters, whether they masquerade as law enforcement or private individuals.”

The superintendent issued a heartfelt plea to the public, urging them to exercise utmost caution.

“Do not be swayed by pressure, refrain from transferring money to unfamiliar entities, and steer clear of suspicious links.”

In related news, since its establishment on November 1 last year, the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre (AOC 1441) has waged a battle against cyber fraud, culminating in the freezing of 39,918 bank accounts, revealed Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Chantararuangthong. Prasert disclosed that this drastic action was prompted by a deluge of 307,515 complaints received by AOC as of January’s conclusion.

In other news, cybercrime inflicted a devastating blow to Thailand’s economy with losses amounting to 6.76 billion baht within 70 days, as reported by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB). Despite a decline in call centre scams, there was a noted surge in scams related to the struggling economy, including those promising additional income and fraudulent loan schemes.