How to Avoid Romance Scams in Thailand

Financial losses

Arguably, this first item is the biggest consequence of love scams. Scammers use emotional manipulation to cheat people out of their hard-earned money. In turn, they make poor financial choices that can jeopardize their security and well-being.

Legal troubles

Scammers can involve their victims in their illegal activities (money laundering, suspicious wire transfers, etc.). They exploit the latter’s feelings (or, in other cases, dependence) to convince them.

Even if a victim is unaware or threatened, they can still be legally prosecuted.

Identity theft

Scammers usually create a false sense of intimacy and trust. Once they get both, they steal confidential information (address, social media credentials, bank account details, etc.) behind their victims’ backs for nefarious purposes.

Asset theft

Some scammers try to lessen suspicions. Instead of asking for money or confidential information, they ask for “gifts.” These can include property, jewelry, gadgets, and vehicles, assets that they can easily sell.

Emotional disarray

The manipulation and aftermath take a huge toll on victims’ mental health. They may feel betrayed, ashamed, depressed, anxious, and embarrassed after processing their experience.

Isolation

Scammers shut their victims out from their loved ones to avoid detection. They act as the only trustworthy figures to prey on their loneliness and dependence.

Once victims realize the lies and damage to their other relationships, the isolation magnifies.

Medical emergencies

Say your online Thai girlfriend claims she or a family member has a health problem. She asks you for financial assistance to cover the costs of hospitalization or treatment.

It’s natural to want to help her, but that doesn’t mean you should open your wallet so easily. You haven’t met each other in person, meaning you don’t know each other beyond your screens.

Military or overseas worker impersonation

Military personnel and overseas workers are often in remote areas or busy with their responsibilities. Knowing this, scammers adopt their persona to avoid in-person meetups and video calls.

Identity confirmation becomes difficult for victims, and financial help becomes easier for scammers. So, when a Thai woman tells you she’s working in a foreign country, don’t take it at face value.

Financial requests

Consider this tactic a dead giveaway. When a match/partner asks for monetary help with business struggles, travel expenses, or other transactions, she might have ill intentions. If she promises to pay you back, don’t take the bait.

A scammer’s pleas often start small but balloon into bigger ones with your consistent compliance.

Vague stories

Pay attention to your match’s/partner’s stories. Do the details clash? Does the timing never add up?

If your instinct tells you something is odd, don’t brush it off. It may be sending you a warning. Whenever you catch inconsistencies, don’t be afraid to ask for clarifications.

You’ll know the truth just by her answers. If her response is as vague as her tales, that’s how you know she’s a romance scammer.

Love bombing

Your relationship is moving too fast. You feel pressured to run at her speed because she’s showering you with massive attention.

Don’t be fooled by the intensity. There may be nothing of substance hiding behind it. After all, relationships need gradual buildups.

#1: Document the details of the scam.

Fraud prevention expert Alexis Abramson advises that you should document the details of the incident. Take screenshots of your messages and transactions with the scammer, and note the dates, times, and accounts used. Evidence will be helpful in building your case.

#2: Report the incident.

If you’re a tourist, submit a report with the Thai Tourist Police at 115. You can also reach out to the Anti-Online Scam Center (or AOC) through their 24/7 hotline (1441). The earlier you report, the sooner they can conduct an investigation.

If you’ve met your match/partner online, report the scam to the platform where you’ve met. They may be able to help you hold them accountable.

#3: Protect your assets.

Contact your bank’s fraud department to report the incident and tighten your account security. It’s also possible to recover your money after being scammed, depending on the payment method, the amount of money stolen, and other variables.

#4: Seek legal assistance.

Ask for counsel from a local fraud lawyer. They can assess your incident and present legal options to recover your money and hold the scammer accountable.

#1: Confirm and observe.

You can’t truly know someone you haven’t physically met and spent time with. Go on dates, meet their social circle, and communicate more to verify your match’s/partner’s identity and avoid overlooking romance scammer tactics.

#2: Don’t fall for any appeal to your emotions.

Emotional manipulation is a scammer’s best weapon. Not all sob stories and romantic declarations are genuine, especially if they’re followed by requests to send money or reveal confidential information.

#3: Inform your loved ones.

Let a family member or friend know who you’re dating. Ask for their opinions about your interactions. Their outside perspective might provide you with some clarity.