The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) has identified a prevalent fake news story circulating on social media platforms, claiming a “gold stock investment” scheme allegedly associated with the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

The DE urges the public not to fall victim to this scam and to exercise caution when sharing information online.

Mr. Wetang Phuangsup, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the DES and the ministry’s spokesperson, revealed that between June 14th and 20th, 2024, the Anti-Fake News Center monitored and received reports of over 1 million suspicious messages, with 323 requiring further investigation. Social listening tools played a crucial role in identifying these potential fake news instances.

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Top 5 Fake News Categories:

1. Government Policies/Official News: Fake news related to government policies, official announcements, public order, morality, and national security.
2. Health Products/Hazardous Substances: Fake news concerning health products, dangerous substances,cosmetics, and illegal goods and services.
3. Disasters: Fake news about various disasters.
4. Economy: Fake news related to the economy, finance, and investments.
5. Online Crime: Fake news about online crime and internet scams.

Top 10 Trending Fake News:

1. Gold stock investment scheme associated with the Stock Exchange of Thailand.
2. Job posting for 1,912 bag packing and folding positions.
3. SSO registration for child benefits and allowances totaling 1,400 baht per month.
4. Recruitment for coffee bag folders through the “Department of Skill” page.
5. Thailand International Airport page offering flight booking jobs.
6. Job recruitment for legal engineering visas for soil management and landfilling.
7. Health misinformation about bloating, stomach tightness, and tinnitus during the rainy season.
8. Misleading finger rubbing techniques for digestion, spleen, liver, and eyesight improvement.
9. False announcement from the Ministry of Public Health regarding changes to the Young Red Cross uniform.
10. Online driver’s license application without an exam through the “Arisa” page.

Mr. Wetang emphasized that many of these fake news stories exploit government policies, official news, and government agencies, often misleading the public and creating misunderstandings. These scams can lead to identity theft and other forms of online fraud, causing significant harm to individuals and society.

The DES urges the public to be vigilant and verify the accuracy of information before sharing it online. To report fake news or suspicious websites, individuals can utilize the following channels:

• Line: @antifakenewscenter
• Website: https://www.antifakenewscenter.com/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AFNCThailand
• Hotline: GCC 1111 ext. 87 (24 hours)

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