Bangkok: The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has released a list of 203 dangerous apps, warning the public not to be fooled or download them, as they may have their accounts and personal information stolen. Mr. Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn, Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES), along with the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA), highlighted the threat posed by these apps after numerous incidents of financial theft from mobile devices.
According to Thai News Agency, the investigation revealed significant problems affecting users who downloaded these malicious applications. These apps, available on both iOS and Android systems, were capable of stealing data or even controlling the devices remotely. In 2022, a comprehensive list of these dangerous applications was published on the Facebook pages of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society and NCSA Thailand. Users are urged to uninstall any suspicious apps immediately and keep their phone systems updated to the latest versions.
The DES has cautioned the public about the risks of downloading applications that might carry dangerous malware. Such malware can lead to unauthorized access and control over phones, especially concerning financial transactions. Efforts are underway to coordinate with app stores to block these harmful apps, preventing unsuspecting users from downloading them.
Additionally, the ministry has addressed issues with fraudulent SMS messages disguised as coming from legitimate banks, e-commerce platforms, and social media. Such messages often contain misleading links. Users are advised against clicking on links sent via SMS or adding unknown contacts on platforms like Line. The ministry emphasizes skepticism towards messages offering unrealistic benefits or threatening consequences, encouraging verification with the purported sender.
The NBTC has identified companies responsible for sending fake SMS, and efforts are being made to halt these activities. The ministry collaborates with the NBTC to prevent mobile service providers from allowing such deceptive messages. Users are warned to be cautious of fake LINE accounts and to avoid interacting with suspicious contacts offering unrealistic opportunities.
The Minister of Digital Economy and Society advises against engaging with contacts on Line or SMS that promise too-good-to-be-true offers, as these are often scams. Users are encouraged to only contact organizations through verified apps or official websites, particularly those ending with “.th,” indicating a verified Thai domain.
Users are reminded to regularly verify the safety of the applications they use to avoid falling victim to scams. The ministry’s ongoing efforts aim to protect the public from losing money to cybercriminals.