BANGKOK, Thailand – Krungthai Bank is warning students and parents about a new scam in which fraudsters go beyond demanding money transfers and send “runners” to collect cash and valuable items directly from victims. The bank said students are increasingly being targeted by scammers posing as representatives of mobile phone operators, police, the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) or the Department of Special Investigation (DSI).
Victims may be falsely told they are linked to a mule account, drugs or money laundering. The scammers then gradually take control of their victims, telling them not to discuss the matter with parents or other people. They may force victims to remain on a video call so their movements can be monitored and instruct them to transfer money supposedly for “verification” or to prove their innocence.
Krungthai said the scam has now developed into an on-ground operation, with victims sometimes ordered to withdraw cash or collect valuables and leave them at designated locations. In some cases, a “runner” is sent directly to collect the money or property. Items targeted can include cash, gold, amulets, watches and other valuables. The bank stressed that genuine officials will never ask people to transfer money or hand over valuables for an investigation. They also do not conduct investigations through video calls or tell people to keep the matter secret from their families.
Anyone receiving such instructions should hang up immediately, tell someone they trust and contact the relevant organisation directly through an official channel. People who suspect they are being targeted by an online scam can contact the Anti-Online Scam Operation Center (AOC) at 1441, 24 hours a day. Krungthai customers can report suspicious incidents or seek assistance through the Krungthai Contact Center at 02-111-1111, press 108, 24 hours a day. (krungthai.com)
