Whoscall, a popular call protection application, has introduced a new Scam Alert feature in collaboration with eleven organisations in Thailand to enhance call protection and cybersecurity for users. This initiative aims to create a safer digital environment for Thais through knowledge sharing and collaboration across public and private sectors.
Gogolook, the owner of the Whoscall application, partnered with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to launch the Scam Alert feature on the app. The rollout involves cooperation from various organisations, including telecom operators, police, banks, the National Cyber Security Agency, the Central Investigation Bureau, and the Thailand Consumer Council.
Dr Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck, NBTC chairman, emphasized the importance of raising awareness among Thais about cybercrime, given that the app has over 20 million downloads locally. He highlighted the increasing threat of cybercrimes affecting consumers, state agencies, and businesses, necessitating collaborative efforts to combat these challenges.
Manwoo Joo, chief executive of Gogolook Thailand, highlighted the prevalence of scams in Thailand, with significant financial damages reported between March 2022 and July 2024. The Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) Report 2024 revealed that many Thais lack confidence in recognizing scams, with a high frequency of encounters reported monthly.
The Scam Alert feature on the Whoscall app serves as a comprehensive resource for users, offering updates from law enforcement and educational content from private partners. By enabling notifications, users can stay informed about urgent scam threats such as authority impersonation, ransomware, financial scams, phishing attacks, and identity theft.
The Scam Education Content feature provides users with insights into different types of scams across various industries, helping to raise awareness and educate individuals on scam prevention strategies. By accessing verified and accurate information through the app, users can protect themselves from online threats and take advantage of enhanced protection features.
Overall, the introduction of the Scam Alert feature by Whoscall represents a significant step towards improving call protection and cybersecurity for users in Thailand. With the collaborative efforts of various organisations and the commitment to knowledge sharing, this initiative aims to create a safer digital environment and empower individuals to recognize and prevent scams effectively.