Thailand is facing an escalation in scam calls and SMS fraud, with cybercriminals employing increasingly sophisticated tactics to deceive the public. Despite global efforts to combat online fraud, the latest reports indicate a significant surge in scam attempts targeting Thai citizens.
As these fraudulent activities become more prevalent, understanding the scope and impact of this issue is crucial for safeguarding personal and financial security in the digital age.
Whoscall, a leading app designed to identify unknown callers and prevent smartphone scams, has unveiled concerning data outlining the rise in scam attempts in Thailand. According to Whoscall's annual report, scam attempts in Thailand surged by 12.2 million in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Thailand emerged as the primary target for SMS scams in Asia, with Thai users receiving a staggering 58 million suspicious messages throughout the year. Scammers employed various tactics, including fake links, fraudulent login requests, prompts to download malicious software, and fake one-page shopping sites to deceive the public.
Telecom Review Asia Analysis: A2P SMS Fraud a Rising Threat
The report, which studies scamming behaviors through incoming calls, messages, and links from SMS’, revealed that fraudsters in Thailand heavily relied on SMS messages to perpetrate their schemes, sending a total of 58.3 million messages in 2023. Common fraudulent messages included bogus loan proposals and redirecting links to gambling websites.
Alarmingly, scammers have also begun impersonating delivery services and government agencies, such as the electricity authority, to defraud the public.
The Broader Asian Fraud Landscape
The 2023 Asia Fraud Annual Report documented 347.3 million phone and SMS scams globally, marking a 14% decrease from the 405.3 million incidents recorded in 2022. Despite this overall decline, the report highlighted that Thailand's exposure to online fraud has intensified, with 79 million fraudulent calls and scam SMS messages recorded—an 18% increase from 2022's total of 66.7 million.
In 2023, Thai citizens received 20.8 million scam calls, up 22% from the 17 million reported in 2022. Similarly, the number of fraudulent SMS messages increased by 17%, from 49.7 million in 2022 to 58 million in 2023. This surge positions Thailand as the highest risk area for SMS fraud in Asia, followed by the Philippines and Hong Kong.
Latest Industry News: Market Leader, Vox Solutions, Combats Flash Calls and Artificial Traffic in APAC
Strategies and Solutions
Titinun Suttinaraphan, Gogolook's SEA Regional Marketing Director, emphasized the growing sophistication of fraudsters, who now use personalized tactics and available data to craft targeted scams. Suttinaraphan urged the public to remain vigilant and utilize preventive tools like Whoscall to protect themselves from scams.
In June 2023, Whoscall introduced new features that allow users to scan URLs and detect suspicious SMS messages. These tools revealed that 4.5% of messages contained suspicious links, with fake login requests, malicious software prompts, and fake shopping sites being the most common.
Several telecommunications companies in the Asia Pacific region are intensifying their efforts to combat fraud and spam. Dialog Axiata PLC has partnered with Telin to address spam and fraud issues, while India has introduced the Chakshu digital platform, enabling citizens to report fraudulent calls and messages.
In a collaborative effort, Vonage and AWS are integrating 5G API and fraud protection solutions. Optus has launched an anti-fraud feature and, together with AFCX, is tackling SMS scams through the 'Call Stop' initiative.
Additionally, Toku is ramping up efforts in Singapore to eliminate call frauds. These initiatives underscore a concerted regional push towards enhancing cybersecurity and protecting consumers from fraudulent communications.
Read More: Globe Telecom Blocks and Deactivates More Malicious SIM Cards
Commitment to Protection
Manwoo Joo, Gogolook's Chief Operating Officer, reaffirmed Whoscall's commitment to fighting scams, especially in Thailand. Joo highlighted the importance of continuous innovation and collaboration with various sectors to safeguard against fraud.
Whoscall's vision is to empower Thai citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to stay safe in an increasingly digital world. By partnering with the Royal Thai Police, the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA), telecommunications companies, financial institutions, and government agencies, Whoscall aims to create a safer online environment for everyone in Thailand.
Despite extensive information and the awareness of cybercrime, today's scams evolve rapidly, making it increasingly challenging for the public to identify and avoid them.
Read More: Chinese Mobile Operators Roll Out OTP API to Boost Security
Public awareness campaigns are equally important in combating online fraud. Educating the public about common scam techniques, warning signs, and preventive measures can significantly reduce the number of successful fraud attempts. Workshops, seminars, and digital literacy programs can empower individuals with the knowledge needed to recognize and avoid scams.
The Thai government continuously encourages victims of scams to collect all relevant information and evidence and report it to their local police station. Victims can also contact the High-Tech Crime Division Hotline at 1441 or submit a report online at https://www.thaipoliceonline.com.
Read More: Indonesian Telcos Enhance Security with New API Services
In conclusion, the fight against scam calls and SMS fraud in Thailand requires a multi-faceted approach, combining technological innovation, public awareness, and cross-sector collaboration.
By combining various elements—technological innovation, public awareness campaigns, collaborative partnerships, and robust regulatory measures—Thailand can strengthen its defenses against scam calls and SMS fraud. This comprehensive strategy not only protects consumers but also promotes trust in digital communications and supports a safer, more secure digital economy.
Telecom Review Asia Industry Analysis: Globe Cautions Users Against Rising OTT Scam Messages
Read More: How Can Telecom Operators and the Governments Combat Scam Calls
Telecom Review Asia Exclusive Insights: Exploring the USD 446.00 Million Thailand Cybersecurity Market in 2024
