The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has reported a significant decrease in cybercrime damages since the establishment of the 1441 Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre (AOC) Hotline. According to Ekapong Rimcharone, the ministry’s inspector-general, the AOC has been operational since November 1, 2023, and has shown promising results in its first year of operation.
The primary objective of the AOC is to address the rapidly evolving online threats through collaborative efforts from various sectors, including banking, telecommunications, and law enforcement. Individuals can report incidents directly to the 1441 Hotline, which has proven to be an effective tool in combating cybercrime.
One of the key functions of the AOC is to coordinate with banks to immediately halt electronic transactions and freeze accounts for up to seven days under the Emergency Decree on the Prevention and Suppression of Online Crime. This proactive approach aims to prevent further financial losses for victims of cybercrime.
Additionally, the AOC collects initial information about crimes and forwards it to local police for further investigation. While victims are still required to file a formal police complaint to complete the legal process, the AOC plays a crucial role in facilitating the coordination between multiple stakeholders in combating cybercrime.
Moreover, the AOC has collaborated with the Bank of Thailand to tighten the scrutiny of mule accounts, aiming to prevent individuals from exploiting multiple accounts for illicit activities. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission has also implemented measures to regulate the usage of SIM cards, requiring individuals with more than six cards to provide explanations for their usage.
Mr. Ekapong highlighted that the AOC has successfully reduced both the number of cybercrime cases and the associated damages by approximately 44% in the past year. Moving forward, the AOC plans to expedite the freezing and recovery of funds for victims in collaboration with the Anti-Money Laundering Office, banks, and telecom operators.
Furthermore, the government intends to enhance partnerships with ASEAN and developed nations to strengthen the fight against online crime on a global scale. By leveraging international cooperation and sharing best practices, the AOC aims to better protect individuals and businesses from the detrimental effects of cybercrime.
Overall, the establishment of the 1441 Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre Hotline has proven to be a valuable asset in combating cybercrime and reducing its impact on society. With continued efforts and collaboration, the AOC is well-positioned to further enhance cybersecurity measures and safeguard the interests of individuals in the digital age.