Warning! Online Gambling Leads to Prison and Asset Seizure

The beginning of many scams often stems from enticing advertisements on social media — such as offers of free money, free trials, or messages from fake accounts inviting users to invest, claiming to have secret techniques or winning formulas. Initially, victims might receive some returns, making them believe it’s real, and they gradually invest more. Eventually, the system, which is programmed to deceive, begins to drain all their money, leaving players unable to truly win.

Cyber Police warn that online gambling platforms are no different from call center scams. These websites are programmed to trick users into losing. For example:

At first, they often “give out luck” to make players greedy.
Once more money is invested, losses begin to pile up.
Players typically cling to the money already lost.
In the end, they lose everything — even their future.

Thai Law and Gambling

Thailand’s main legal framework is the Gambling Act of B.E. 2478 (1935), which technically prohibits gambling but allows for special permissions. The state may issue royal decrees to permit certain gambling under specific circumstances. In fact, casinos were briefly allowed in 1935 before being banned again. Under Thai law, gambling remains illegal, and it is an offense to engage in gambling activities or to advertise or encourage others to gamble.

Legal Consequences of Online Gambling Involvement

Players (those who gamble)
- Violation of Section 9 of the Gambling Act
- Penalty: Up to 1 year imprisonment, or a fine of up to 1,000 THB, or both
Operators/Webmasters (those organizing the gambling
- Violation of Section 12 of the Gambling Act
- Penalty: Up to 2 years imprisonment, or a fine of up to 2,000 THB, or both
Accomplices/Website Owners
- Violation of Section 60 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act B.E. 2542 (1999)
- Penalty: Up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to 200,000 THB
- All related assets are subject to seizure

How to Protect Yourself from Online Gambling Scams

Be aware that gambling websites control the outcomes through programming.
Don’t let emotions or greed guide your decisions.
Don’t click on suspicious links — they may steal your personal data.
Stop hoping to get rich quick — nothing comes free.
If you see suspicious activity, report it via:
- Hotline 1212
- “Online Surveillance Volunteer” Facebook page
- Call 1441 or 191

Online gambling may seem like a shortcut to wealth, but the truth is: only the house wins. Players take all the risk — including jail time and asset seizure. Stay away — it’s safer.