Thailand adopts new law modeled after Singapore’s to tackle scams

The Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand announced a new law to combat scams, similar to Singapore’s Shared Responsibility Framework.

• Thailand is introducing a new law, similar to Singapore’s, to combat scams and assist victims by holding financial institutions and mobile phone operators responsible.
• The new law will focus on specific measures for returning scammed money and increasing penalties for offenders, with a new requirement for SMS messages to include embedded links for sender identification.
• While the proposed measures address symptoms of scam operations, further steps may be necessary to strengthen defense against evolving scam tactics, possibly involving access to personal data with strict limits to protect privacy.
• Cybercrime in Southeast Asia surged by 82% from 2021 to 2022, driven by the region’s rapid digital growth, leaving the underbanked particularly at risk.
• Several countries, such as Singapore and the Philippines, are adopting frameworks and security measures; however, cross-border collaboration remains essential to combat scam farms and cyber slavery effectively.

The law will hold financial institutions and mobile phone operators accountable for deterring scams and assisting victims. It also aims to regulate SMS messages and increase penalties for offenders. The law in Singapore requires these parties to fulfill specific responsibilities and may grant the police the authority to freeze victim accounts.

Southeast Asia is the world’s fastest-growing internet market, with a digital economy poised to hit $600 billion in gross merchandise value by 2030.

However, the rapid growth of digitalization has also led to a steep increase in cybercrime in the region – up by 82% from 2021 to 2022 – emphasizing the critical need to address cyberattacks targeting the underbanked population, who are especially susceptible due to limited digital literacy and dependence on informal financial services.

While the proposed measures address the symptoms of scamming, there may be a need for further steps to strengthen defense against evolving scam tactics. This could involve granting access to personal data, with specific limits to protect privacy. Overall, the measures are a step forward in combating criminal activities that have affected not only Thailand but the global community.

However, implementing these measures requires a careful balance between security and individual rights. Authorities must ensure that personal data is handled with utmost care, adhering to strict regulations to prevent misuse or unauthorized access. Public awareness campaigns and education initiatives could also play a crucial role in empowering individuals to recognize and avoid scams. Collaboration between international agencies and technology companies is essential to stay ahead of sophisticated scam networks, ensuring a safer digital environment for everyone.

Online scams are a significant issue in Thailand, affecting both locals and foreigners. Here are some key points about the current situation and measures being taken to combat these scams:

Types of Online Scams

1. Fake Rental Listings: Scammers post fake rental properties online, asking for deposits or fees before showing the property.
2. Phishing Emails and Calls: Fraudsters pretend to be from banks, government agencies, or other trusted entities to steal personal information.
3. Romance Scams: Scammers lure victims into sending money or gifts to a fake lover.
4. Lottery Scams: Victims are told they’ve won a prize but need to pay a fee or tax to claim it.
5. Investment Scams: Fraudulent schemes promise high returns but are actually Ponzi schemes or frauds.

Recent Statistics

Between March 2022 and November 2024, over 739,000 online crime cases were reported in Thailand, with damages exceeding 77 billion baht. Major scams include romance and investment scams, impersonation calls, fake SMS alerts, and fake call centers.

Anti-Online Scam Operation Center (AOC)

In 2023, Thai authorities launched the Anti-Online Scam Operation Center (AOC) to streamline the reporting and remediation process for victims of online crimes. The AOC offers a single point of contact for reporting scams and leverages advanced technology to expedite investigations.

Tips to Avoid Online Scams

1. Do Your Research: Check reviews, ratings, and credentials before engaging with any online offer.
2. Secure Payment Methods: Use PayPal or credit cards instead of wire transfers or cryptocurrencies.
3. Verify Identities: Be cautious of unsolicited emails or calls asking for personal or financial details.
4. Be Wary of Online Relationships: Avoid sending money or gifts to someone you haven’t met in person.
5. Report Suspicious Activity: Contact authorities and your bank if you suspect a scam.

Government Measures

Thailand has introduced a new law modeled after Singapore’s Shared Responsibility Framework to combat scams. This law holds financial institutions and mobile phone operators accountable for deterring scams and assisting victims. It also regulates SMS messages and increases penalties for offenders.