Fact-check and debunk fake news with Thai PBS Verify

Understanding the laws and the rights of donors when questions arise over donated funds

People making online donations to Thai temples are being urged to verify bank account details before transferring money, amid concerns that funds intended for religious institutions could end up in private accounts. The Revenue Department has also reminded donors that paper donation certificates are no longer accepted for tax deduction claims from 2026, with eligible donations now required to go through the e-donation system.

When an online romance does not begin with two people who genuinely know each other, it may instead begin with a carefully fabricated identity designed to appear authentic—from photographs and social media accounts to affectionate messages and even video calls that appear to show a real person.

The sound of engines pulling up at Ban Khlong Luek checkpoint in Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province, was not just a sign that the journey had ended. It also marked the beginning of another reality that few had ever imagined. For those stepping off the vehicles, there was both relief at setting foot on Thai soil again and lingering fear still visible in their eyes.

One of the ways people often seek emotional fulfillment is through giving—whether in the form of money or goods. Combined with the Thai cultural tendency toward empathy and generosity, it’s no surprise that charitable giving has multiplied significantly recently. The rise of online donation platforms has made it even easier, allowing people to contribute without leaving home.

According to Meltwater data, online shopping in Thailand accounted for 11.4% of total retail purchases in June 2025, marking an 8.8% increase compared to the previous year. With such rapid growth, this space has inevitably become a prime target for scammers. One emerging tactic is the “Brushing Scam”, a deceptive scheme in which scammers send unsolicited parcels to people’s homes.

Since the increase in call-center scams, which intensified around 2019 during the COVID-19 outbreak, scammers have not only adopted increasingly advanced technologies but also employed psychological tactics, particularly manipulating victims' emotions as a core strategy for deception.

Songkran 2025 should be a festival full of fun and safety. Therefore, being aware of scams and observing suspicious behavior around can greatly reduce the chance of becoming a victim. Thai PBS Verify has compiled common threats during the Songkran Festival and how to deal with them right here.