PHATTHALUNG, Thailand – Residents in Phatthalung have flocked to a popular shopping mall to scan their faces or irises after hearing they could receive 800 baht. The governor has ordered authorities to temporarily suspend the service and investigate the matter, warning locals of potential scams.
On August 20, security officials from Mueang Phatthalung District, together with the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) of Phatthalung and investigators from Mueang Phatthalung Police Station, visited a shopping mall in Khao Chiek Subdistrict following complaints about facial and iris scanning machines offering 800 baht for participation.
Initial investigations revealed that these machines have been set up in multiple malls across Phatthalung since early August 2025. Residents participating in the program first download an application, then scan their face or iris at designated stations. Upon completion, the app credits digital tokens, which can later be exchanged for cash or transferred to bank accounts. Each station reportedly has staff assisting participants.
Rattasat Chidchu, Governor of Phatthalung, ordered authorities to educate residents about the potential risks and to suspend the service temporarily while the investigation continues. He warned that if the scheme is found to be a scam or linked to criminal activity, those responsible will face legal action.
