BANGKOK, Thailand – The government is warning the public to verify all online donation requests before transferring money, as scammers often exploit religious holidays to defraud citizens.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak revealed that scammers are taking advantage of the current religious holiday period. He said they create fake charity drives, such as for releasing cattle, helping injured animals, or offering online merit-making certificates for tax deductions.
The warning comes as the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce forecasts public spending during the Asanha Bucha and Buddhist Lent holidays to reach 6 to 8 billion Thai baht. This figure is an estimated two to three percent increase from last year’s spending of 6.47 billion baht.
Anukool cited a 2023 survey from the Social and Business Development Research Center, which found that scams playing on sympathy caused 2.3 billion baht in damages. The survey noted that Gen Z and Gen Y were more likely to fall victim to these scams than older generations.
The government urges the public to be vigilant before making online donations. Citizens can verify accounts and websites through the Royal Thai Police platform, www.checkgon.go.th. It is also crucial to check that the recipient’s account details match those of the official charity. Suspicious activity can be reported via the Thai Police Online portal. (NNT)
