Bangkok: BAAC has partnered with the Technology Crime Suppression Division to introduce a “Fraud Alert Service” aimed at bolstering cyber security measures. This initiative is set to assist in reducing financial losses among farmers by providing an easy-to-access tool for detecting and reporting online fraud.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chatchai Sirilai, Manager of the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), highlighted the increasing severity and complexity of cyber threats, which include schemes such as advance money transfer scams, online product fraud, and fake government websites. In response, BAAC has collaborated with the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) to launch the ‘Fraud Alert Service’ on the LINE Official “BAAC Family” platform. This service, which boasts over 14 million followers, allows users to check and report fraudulent activities, such as suspicious phone numbers, accounts, and websites, as well as provide real-time crime tips to the police.
The initiative represents the first step for this state-owned financial institution to elevate its digital platform services beyond traditional communications. The collaboration aims to create a ‘safe, easy to use, and truly accessible’ service that integrates data and technology to combat online crimes. It serves as a model for governmental collaboration in fostering ‘digital immunity’ among the public.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwpaen, Commander of the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), emphasized the growing threat of technological crimes in Thailand, which indiscriminately target individuals, particularly farmers and the elderly. These groups are often targeted through SMS or LINE messages masquerading as government financial aid offers. With scammers employing sophisticated methods like Deepfake and AI technology, the TCSD’s mission extends beyond apprehending offenders to encouraging proactive public defense against such threats.
The collaboration with BAAC aims to expand the cyber threat prevention network to grassroots communities, ensuring that accurate, timely information is accessible. Furthermore, BAAC has introduced a content series titled ‘This is definitely a scam’ to educate the public on recognizing fraud, which will be available across various digital platforms, including LINE, TikTok, and Facebook. This initiative underscores the importance of vigilance in financial transactions to prevent becoming victims of fraud.