Restaurant Owner Files Complaint Against Influencer Over Extortion Attempt
A Nonthaburi restaurant owner has reported an influencer to the police after being threatened with negative reviews for refusing to pay for promotional services.
On October 25, 2026, Khaosod Online reported that the owner of 'Prakai Bang Yai' restaurant in Nonthaburi filed a formal police complaint following an alleged extortion attempt by a social media influencer. The restaurant owner, Ms. Sarocha Rungrasamee, stated that on October 23, a page claiming to have over 300,000 followers contacted her to offer a review. Due to high customer volume during a long weekend, the owner declined the offer.
According to the report, the influencer responded by demanding 25,000 baht for a review, threatening to post negative content and give the restaurant a one-star rating if the payment was not made. The owner subsequently posted a video of the interaction on social media, which gained significant attention. Police have indicated that such actions may constitute criminal extortion, intimidation, and harassment.
For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the potential for deceptive practices within the digital marketing space. While the police are currently investigating the matter, it remains to be confirmed whether the influencer is a legitimate content creator or an individual operating a fraudulent account. Authorities are treating the case as a serious legal matter, emphasizing that businesses should remain vigilant against unsolicited demands for payment in exchange for favorable reviews.
