The Bank of Thailand has recognized the substantial ramifications of suspending mule accounts, which could impact a large number of individuals. In light of this ongoing issue, discussions are taking place with the Technology Crime Suppression Center (TCSC) and various commercial banks to develop protocols for unlocking legitimate accounts that are not associated with mule activities.
On September 13, Daranee Saeju, the assistant governor responsible for payment systems and user protection at the Bank of Thailand, addressed the growing concerns surrounding the freezing of accounts connected to fraud activities. She emphasized that only the accounts directly involved in the pathways of funds being transferred from mule accounts are subject to such actions.
In an effort to combat the rising tide of mule accounts, the TCSC and commercial banks are expanding their strategies for tracking money trails more effectively. This initiative not only aims to return stolen funds to victims but also raises the potential for inadvertently impacting innocent individuals who have no involvement in fraudulent actions.
The Bank of Thailand has already initiated consultations with the TCSC and commercial banks and reached a preliminary agreement to accelerate the adjustment of account freezing protocols and expedite the process for unfreezing accounts. This action aims to mitigate the implications for those who are unjustly affected. Discussions regarding these adjustments are ongoing, and immediate implementation is anticipated.
In addition to these measures, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has launched a straightforward method for users to verify their account details. By dialing 179 followed by their ID card number, users can check if the name associated with their mobile banking account corresponds with their SIM card registration. This regulation, enforced since May 28 of last year, mandates that names on mobile banking accounts must match those registered to SIM cards. While intended to eliminate mule accounts and fraudulent SIMs, this requirement has also disrupted the services of legitimate users and businesses, leading to further concerns about the cascading effects of account freezes.
For those impacted by the recent measures, there are options available to cancel the suspension. Affected individuals can contact the AOC Centre at 1441, extension 2, or visit their bank in person to update their registration details.
