Hotel booking frauds are increasing, according to a police warning
In the eastern provinces of Thailand, a concerning rise in online fraud has been reported, particularly in the realm of fake booking services offering discounted hotel rooms and pool villas. This warning was issued by Provincial Police Region 2, which oversees eight provinces including Chon Buri, Rayong, Trat, and Chanthaburi.
The scammers often post their fraudulent offers on social media platforms, especially Facebook, advertising them with seemingly attractive promotional discount rates. These offers are often advertised as limited-time promotions requiring immediate payment to secure the lowest prices.
Victims are lured into making payments into mule bank accounts, which are essentially accounts used to receive illegally obtained funds. After payment, the fraudsters block all further communication attempts by the victims, effectively disappearing with the money.
According to the police, of the 34,570 cybercrime cases reported to the Royal Thai Police website in July 2023, more than half (51.5%) involved fake service booking pages. The total financial damage to victims due to these fraudulent activities was approximately 162 million baht.
To avoid falling prey to these scams, the police advise potential customers to verify unknown bank accounts before making any payment. They recommend using apps like Cyber Check or websites such as Checkgon.
Recently, a suspect named "Aiw" was arrested by police for running a Facebook page offering fake hotel rooms and pool villas. The arrested suspect was linked to 20 reported cases of online fraud.
This organized nature of these scams was further highlighted by the Royal Thai Police, who have arrested suspects involved in multiple cases. Potential customers are urged to be vigilant and cautious when making online bookings, especially in popular beach destinations such as Chon Buri, Rayong, Trat, and Chanthaburi.
[1] Source: Pol Lt Gen Yingyod Thepjamnong, the chief of Police Region 2.
- Given the rising instances of online fraud in the eastern provinces, it's crucial for users to be aware and vigilant, especially when encountering deals on social media platforms like Facebook, which often promote fake booking services at discounted rates.
- In light of the increasing cybercrime cases, the police advise the general public to verify unfamiliar bank accounts prior to making any payments, and to use apps like Cyber Check or websites such as Checkgon for added security when addressing such online transactions.
