Thai government to tighten grip on online scammers

The Government of Thailand is set to unleash new laws in its war against online scams, with a toughened stance on cyber criminals. Deputy Prime Minister and Digital Economy (MDES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, vowed to not only protect consumers but also tackle the soaring number of fraud cases that threaten the nation’s economic security.

Responding to concerns raised by Senator Wutthiphong Phongsuwan, Prasert admitted, “There have been over 500,000 cases [of online scamming], but only 60,000 are currently being handled by the Royal Thai Police.”

The DES minister emphasised the urgency of reforming outdated laws, increasing penalties for online fraud, and clamping down on notorious call centre gangs that exploit legal loopholes.

In a bid to bring scammers to their knees, the government has collaborated with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to fast-track the freezing of assets linked to online crime syndicates.

“Asset freezing is seen as an effective means to keep online scamming gangs at bay.”

Meanwhile, the government is also targeting the tech infrastructure behind these scams. Internet service providers have been fined a total of 677,500 baht for failing to comply with strict anti-crime regulations, and there’s a focus on combatting emerging technologies such as low Earth orbit satellites used by scammers to dodge enforcement.

In a boost for consumers, from October 3, shoppers using the cash-on-delivery option will be allowed to inspect their goods before paying, offering an additional layer of protection.

The fightback against fraudsters is already paying off. Prasert revealed that daily losses from online scams dropped by 36%, from 116 million baht to 75 million baht, in just one month, reported Bangkok Post.

In related news, Chiang Mai police swooped on a fraudulent online accommodation booking scam gang, arresting a key figure in Sa Kaeo. The operation aimed to boost tourist confidence during the high season by targeting tech-based crimes.

The Chiang Mai Tourist Police, under the directive of Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phuak-am, focused on dismantling mule accounts used by criminals to scam tourists.