Biometric SIM registration, tighter controls on foreign ownership to curb scams

12 Sept 15:01 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand is implementing stricter controls, including biometric SIM card registration and limits on SIM cards for some non-Thais, to combat phone scam gangs.
Additional measures mandate smartphone service providers to screen all SMS systems with URLs, display caller IDs, and require facial scanning for mobile banking transfers over 50,000 baht.
These immediate measures were agreed upon to counter scammers, who often use SIM cards registered with fraudulent foreign IDs, with harsh penalties for non-compliant SIM card dealers.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.