The Fugitive

Good to hear the positive side too!

Super/Hyper markets place TV's and computers on their shelves because that's how they sell things. Whilst not as valuable as they once were, it's a temptation. The solution has to be to employ (more) private security staff. In Paraguay and certainly in Ciudad-del-Este you see uniformed security officers with over the shoulder cartridge belts swinging pump action shotguns with pistols in belt holsters too. They must be an effective deterrent because if you ask the locals nobody can remember when they last shot anyone.

I've given my Vyke virtual U.K. mobile number to everyone. There are only a few organisations with whom you can't do that because they insist upon Thai mobile numbers e.g. Bangkok Bank and shopping websites. I have been receiving calls and SMS with no problems whilst in Thailand and now presently where I am in U.K.

https://www.vyke.com/

Agreed, there are many bank branches compared to U.K. (for example). Only one in my small town however. Last year a large notice was displayed about no longer accepting payment of bills over the counter and to use their mobile APP, website or agencies in future. They do have an outside ATM, CDM and passbook update machine. Now waiting to see if/when they install a VTM. The writing will really be on the wall after that.

If it was your business what would you prefer; an employee going on a bank run or remaining at their post serving your customers?

1. I understand the banks don't like VOIP services because they feel they're less secure than a real mobile telephone number from a service provider. 2. You are referring to your mobile 'phone provider blocking SMS from certain numbers. That is something only they can undo. 'VYKE' offers virtual mobile telephone numbers to rent for; Canada, France, U.K., Poland and U.S.A. That would resolve your issue.

There are dire warnings on the forum about VOIP services being blocked for 2FA (OTP's) after 24 hours use. However, I'm from U.K. and have used 'VYKE' since March with 100% success for High Street Banks, Neo Banks, Cloud Services, Government Departments and Email providers etc. Maybe this could change but for £12 per annum to rent a U.K. virtual mobile telephone number I'm taking my chances and continuing.

Good info thanks. Very frustrating to have to wait all that time but it turned out OK in the end. Feel sorry for the counter staff too in such situations.

Thanks for the warning. Making a mental note on a sheet of paper here; 'Ensure have enough baht available in Bangkok Bank'. Until now, I have always relied upon U.K. credit cards to cover such eventualities.

It's all about choices and customer service. There will always be people who can't/won't handle mobile devices or can't be issued with bank cards. However, in defence, taking cash in food shops has long been considered unhygenic. Plus, the staff have to bank the takings and there are fewer and fewer bank branches around. Another benefit is that you're not going to get short-changed.

Thank you very much. Having very recently been a victim of a suspected software key logger all suggestions are welcome. I noticed that in the U.K. virtual disposable cards are normally debit only. However, you do benefit from the security aspect of course. The other day I booked flights direct with an airline and was disappointed to find out that they accepted credit cards only. I had no option but to enter my new credit card details.

Very good point about your hospital bill, thanks.

Very helpful thank you. I was there at the beginning of May and a very limited choice hotel breakfast made to order was served outside due to the dining room being closed because of Covid. Going again in 4weeks so hoping for a better breakfast now.

Even more worrying are some of the 'border bouncers' who can't even get 20,000 baht together in case they might have to show it. What chance have they got in the case of serious accident or illness?

My traditional banks (U.K.) don't seem to offer virtual disposable credit cards as yet. NeoBanks only offer virtual debit cards. Also, you have to remain resident in U.K. to continue your banking relationship with them. Anyone had any success or can make suggestions please?