Digital Economy Ministry Cracks Down on Scammers Impersonating Thailand Helps Thailand Plus Program, Uncovers 20 Fake Messages
Thailand's Digital Economy Ministry has identified 20 fake messages impersonating the Thailand Helps Thailand Plus program to defraud citizens. Authorities urge the public to use only the official "Pao Tang" app for registration and ignore
Thailand's Digital Economy Ministry has launched an intensified crackdown on fraudsters illegally posing as the Thailand Helps Thailand Plus (60/40) program to commit online crimes. As of May 25, 2025, authorities have identified 327,346 messages related to the program, with 39 confirmed cases including 20 pieces of misinformation, 3 distorted reports, and 16 legitimate posts. The ministry is urging the public to be cautious and follow the "four don'ts" principle: don't click links, don't believe unverified claims, don't rush, and don't transfer money. Deputy Minister Boonthida Samchai emphasized that the only official way to register for the program is through the "Pao Tang" mobile application, while previous "Khon La Khreung Plus" participants can verify eligibility through the "Tung Ngern" app. New merchants must register at Bangkok Bank branches. The ministry clarified that government agencies will never send SMS messages or links requesting program registration, so citizens should disregard any such communications.
