Thai Govt Warns of Traffic Ticket Scam SMS

The Thai government has reissued a warning to the public about SMS scams that impersonate authorities and attempt to defraud individuals by claiming outstanding traffic fines, luring them to fake websites to steal personal and credit card information. This was revealed by Ms. Ploytalay Laksamichanchan, Deputy Government Spokesperson. According to reports from the National Police Agency, scammers send SMS messages from unfamiliar phone numbers with phrases like "RTP: You have an outstanding e-Ticket balance. Please pay at..." along with a shortened link. Clicking this link directs users to a fake website that closely mimics the traffic ticket system. To build credibility, it displays details such as the ticket number, vehicle registration, offense, and fine amount, before prompting users to enter personal information and credit/debit card details for payment through the fraudulent site. Ms. Ploytalay emphasized that the National Police Agency does not have a policy of demanding payment for fines via SMS that includes links or QR codes. She strongly urged the public not to click on such links, scan QR codes, or enter personal or card information if they receive such messages. It is crucial to remain calm, especially when faced with messages urging immediate payment or threatening legal action, and to verify information through official channels independently. Citizens can check for outstanding traffic tickets and pay fines through the "Tang Rath" application by navigating to "All Services" > "Vehicles" > "Check Traffic Tickets." Additionally, verification is possible via the "Police Care" application and the National Police Agency's traffic ticket system PTM at ptm.police.go.th/eTicket. For any suspicious incidents or inquiries, citizens can contact the National Police Agency's hotlines 191 or 1599 24 hours a day for reporting and assistance. Source: INN News