Warning! Scam artists target children and young people – parents need to be aware
When scammers change their target group to young people, how should parents prepare? Find out in this article.
In this era of easy access to technology, children and young people have become the new targets of scammers, whether through online media, games, social media or even in real life. These scams are often disguised in a form that does not seem “harmless” but causes damage to both property and mental health.
Common patterns
Deceiving to work online, offering easy work, getting money quickly, such as liking, sharing or being a page admin to trick to get personal information, tricking to transfer money before starting work, not paying wages after work is completed, etc.
Pretend to be someone you know, especially a teacher or friend, or add them as a friend online to get to know them. Disguise yourself as a new friend in a game or on social media, build trust before inviting them to do inappropriate things, such as taking pictures or arranging to meet in person inappropriately, etc.
Fraudulently selling products/services at low prices. Scammers often entice young people to transfer money in exchange for items or prizes that do not actually exist, especially in online games, mobile phones, concert tickets, where the products/services do not actually exist.
Send fake links to steal personal information , claim to be celebrities or use fake profile pictures, trick children into sending sensitive information such as ID cards, bank accounts or inappropriate images to be used for blackmail.
Trick to ask for OTP to steal online accounts, whether it is social media accounts, emails, or steal money from savings accounts, etc.
What Parents Should Do
Talk to your children and build understanding about online dangers.
Closely monitor online activity
Teaches caution about disclosing personal information and contacting strangers.
If you suspect that you have been scammed, you should collect evidence and report it to the Technology Crime Suppression Center (PCT) or the Royal Thai Police hotline 1441.
References
Anti-Fake News Center of Thailand. (June 21, 2025). Fraudsters target children and youth. www.antifakenewscenter.com/knowledge-bank/fraudsters-target-children-and-youth/
Government Information Service Center for the People. (June 14, 2025). Central Investigation Police warn of fraudsters targeting children and young people, forcing them to rent rooms by themselves. www.gcc.go.th/2025/06/14/central-investigation-police-warns-24/