Law
Student Rescued from Sophisticated Call Center Scam in Pathum Thani
Thai authorities have rescued a 22-year-old student who was coerced by a call center gang into transferring over 1.78 million baht under the guise of a fake scholarship.
On September 12, 2026, the Anti-Cyber Scam Center (ACSC) reported the successful rescue of a 22-year-old female student from a hotel in Pathum Thani province. According to Khaosod Online, the victim had been targeted by a criminal group posing as police officers from Phichit province starting on September 5. The scammers manipulated the student into believing she had been awarded a scholarship to study in the United States, eventually coercing her to deceive her father for funds. Despite her father’s warnings that she might be a victim of fraud, the student complied with the criminals' demands, transferring a total of 1.78 million baht across six transactions.
When authorities intervened, they found the student in a state of distress, still being monitored by the scammers via telephone. This incident highlights the persistent threat of sophisticated call center scams in Thailand, which often utilize psychological manipulation to isolate victims. For residents and travelers, this case serves as a reminder to remain vigilant against unsolicited calls claiming legal or financial authority. While the victim has been secured, investigations into the criminal network are ongoing. It remains to be confirmed how many individuals are involved in this specific syndicate and whether the funds can be recovered.
