Thai Ministry Warns of SMS Scam Impersonating Major Retailers

On October 21, 2026, the Thai Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), through the Anti-Fake News Center (AFNC), issued a public warning regarding a surge in fraudulent SMS messages. These messages falsely claim to be from well-known department stores, offering recipients a cash reward of 3,000 baht.

According to the ministry, these SMS messages contain malicious links designed to trick users into providing sensitive personal information or accessing fraudulent financial platforms. The primary goal of these scams is to steal personal data or induce victims to transfer money under false pretenses.

For residents and travelers in Thailand, this serves as a critical reminder to exercise extreme caution when receiving unsolicited messages, especially those promising financial incentives. Authorities advise against clicking on any links provided in such texts. If you receive a suspicious message, it is recommended to verify the promotion directly through the official channels or websites of the mentioned retailer.

As of now, the ministry continues to monitor the situation to identify the perpetrators behind these campaigns. It remains to be confirmed how many individuals have already fallen victim to this specific scam or if the fraudulent links are associated with a broader cybercrime network. Always prioritize digital security by avoiding interaction with unverified digital communications.