For a safe Songkran Festival, beware of 5 dangers from scammers
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) warns the public to be cautious of 5 threats that often occur during the Songkran Festival, as follows:
- Online Shopping Scams
Common threat: During the festival, seasonal products such as Songkran shirts or water guns are often sold at very cheap prices. This period is also a golden opportunity for scammers who create fake social media pages to lure people into transferring money—without delivering items or sending products that don’t match the description.
Warning signs:
Prices that are too good to be true
No reviews from real buyers
Newly created shops with no sales history
How to prevent and check:
✅ Check the seller’s account at www.blacklistseller.com.
✅ Buy from stores with a clear identity or that offer cash on delivery.
✅ Don’t rush to transfer money—always verify first.
- Home Burglary
Common threat: Houses left vacant while families travel upcountry during the holiday often become targets for burglary.
Warning signs:
Neighbors report seeing strangers entering or leaving the house.
CCTV captures unusual activity
How to prevent it:
✅ Join the “House Watch” program with the police.
✅ Use timers to turn lights on and off or leave some lights on to make it look like someone is home.
✅ Ask neighbors to keep an eye on the property.
- Beware of Snatch Theft and Robbery
Common threat: Scammers often blend in with crowds during water play, taking advantage of the chaos to snatch bags, slash purses, or steal valuables.
Warning signs:
People pushing or crowding you without reason
Individuals dressed like regular festivalgoers but suspiciously observing others
How to prevent it:
✅ Don’t bring valuables when joining water play
✅ Wear your bag in front of your body
✅ Avoid dark or isolated areas
- Vehicle Theft Gangs
Common threat: Car and motorcycle thieves often occur when vehicles are left unattended during outings or festivities.
Warning signs:
Parking areas with no security personnel
Broken or missing CCTV cameras
How to prevent it:
✅ Park in areas with security guards or CCTV coverage.
✅ Use extra steering wheel or wheel locks.
✅ Don’t leave valuables inside the vehicle where they’re visible.
- Beware of Sexual Harassment During Water Play
Common threat: Offenders take advantage of the chaos to inappropriately touch others—either covertly or openly.
Warning signs:
Individuals trying to get unnecessarily close
Repeated touching disguised as “just having fun”
How to prevent it:
✅ Go with a group of friends—avoid playing alone.
✅ Dress more modestly in crowded areas.
✅ If being harassed, report to authorities immediately.
