Bangkok: The commander of the Public Relations Division warns that fake pages claiming to be police and government agencies are still spreading, urging people not to believe them, chat with them, or click on them.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Worasak Phisitbannakorn, Deputy Commander of Patrol and Special Operation Division and Acting Commander of the Public Relations Division, revealed that Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, is very concerned about the public being deceived online. Scammers are impersonating various units of the Royal Thai Police and other government agencies, creating situations to deceive the public. These scammers often use images of high-ranking agency chiefs to enhance credibility. In response, Pol. Gen. Kittirat has ordered relevant agencies to investigate and take strict legal action. He has also tasked the Public Relations Division and other units with disseminating warnings to the public to raise awareness and prevent scams.
For this type of scam, perpetrators create fake pages using names and profile pictures to resemble real government agencies. They often post false content under the guise of police officers or government officials, claiming to assist in tracking down money from scammers or accepting online complaints. These scammers frequently purchase advertising to reach a wide audience, and such pages can often be identified by the word 'Sponsored' under the page name. Additionally, many comments will feature an angry reaction button, which is a red flag for a fake page orchestrated by scammers.
Pol. Col. Worasak emphasized that police and government agencies will not accept reports or evidence to track down refunds via unofficial pages or social media. He urged the public not to engage with these pages, as doing so could lead to being tricked into installing malicious applications, investing in fraudulent schemes, or divulging sensitive information that could be used to commit crimes.
If you encounter any person or website that seems suspicious or appears to be part of an online scam, or if you have fallen victim to such deception, you are encouraged to report it. Assistance can be sought through the AOC hotline at 1441 or by filing a complaint online at www.thaipoliceonline.go.th, available 24 hours a day.