BANGKOK, Thailand – The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) has issued a warning to its customers and the general public to be vigilant against scammers posing as electricity officials.
These fraudsters deceive victims into installing malicious software or apps on their phones, resulting in unauthorized withdrawals from their bank accounts. Since June, BAAC has received over 70 reports of such incidents.
Phaisarn Hongthong, BAAC Spokesperson, emphasized the bank’s dedication to combating technological crime. The scammers often claim that the victim is eligible for a refund on an electricity meter deposit.
Once the victim is convinced, they are asked to add a contact via the Line app, leading to the installation of a counterfeit “PEA Smart Plus” app. This fake app mimics the legitimate BAAC Mobile app. When the victim enters their details, their phone is locked, and funds are siphoned from their account.
BAAC advises customers to be cautious, especially if asked to add a Line contact named “PEA,” which is not the official Line account of the Provincial Electricity Authority. The fake app is typically downloaded through the Google Play Store.
If in doubt, customers are urged to contact BAAC directly or call their hotline at 02-555-0555, extension 111, available 24/7. (NNT)
