The Royal Thai Police have issued a warning regarding the tactics employed by foreign call center scams operating throughout Thailand. These scams have raised significant concerns, prompting authorities to urge citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
Key Tactics Used by Foreign Call Center Scams
Recently, the Royal Thai Police, represented by Deputy Spokesperson Pol. Maj. Gen. Siriwat Deepho, highlighted four primary tactics that can indicate the presence of these scam operations:
- Clusters of Foreign Nationals: Groups of 3 to 6 foreigners living together with ambiguous job roles. These individuals often rent short-term accommodations and maintain a low profile.
- Frequent Foreign-Language Calls: Continuous conversations in foreign languages suggesting ongoing scam activities. Victims are targeted through scripted communications.
- Blackout Curtains: The consistent use of blackout curtains during the day to obscure activities from neighbors while aligning their lighting with the time zones of their targets.
- Multiple Communication Devices: The presence of numerous electronic devices, including phones and computers, often indicates an operational base involved in fraudulent activities.
How to Report Suspicious Activity
The authorities stress the importance of reporting these suspicious signs. Thai citizens and residents in the area should contact the police immediately if they observe any of these behaviors. Reports can be made via the hotline numbers 191 or 1599, which are available 24/7.
Government Response to the Rising Threat
With an increasing trend in technology-driven crimes, particularly call center scams, the National Police Chief, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, has expressed his deep concern. The Royal Thai Police are actively conducting investigations to dismantle these operations. Their efforts aim to restore confidence among residents and fortify safety measures for both locals and tourists in Thailand.
