The government has warned that people who accept payment to register SIM cards for others, known as “mule SIMs”, could face up to three years in prison and a fine of up to THB300,000. The warning forms part of a broader crackdown on cybercrime and online fraud, particularly call centre scams that rely on anonymously registered phone numbers.
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Officials say the practice of registering SIM cards on behalf of criminals has become a key tool used by organised fraud networks. Authorities are urging the public not to share personal information or allow others to use their identity to obtain mobile numbers.
Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, said the government was coordinating with multiple agencies to intensify efforts against technological crime. She described cybercrime as a serious threat that has caused widespread financial damage to both the country and its citizens.
Airin said many scams, especially call centre frauds, rely on SIM cards registered using other people’s identities. Some Thais have reportedly been recruited with small payments to register SIM cards or open accounts that are later used to deceive fellow citizens.
She warned that those involved could face prosecution under the Emergency Decree on Measures for the Prevention and Suppression of Technological Crime, 2023, as amended by No. 2, 2025. The law applies if the SIM card registered in someone’s name is proven to have been used in the commission of an offence.
“The law clearly stipulates the penalties. The owner of a mule SIM may face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to THB300,000 or both,” Airin said. She added that people who procure, advertise, or encourage the buying, selling, renting, or lending of SIM cards, bank accounts, electronic cards, or e-money accounts face even heavier penalties.
According to the decree, those facilitating such activities may be punished with two to five years’ imprisonment and fines ranging from THB200,000 to THB500,000, or both. Authorities say the tougher penalties reflect the growing scale of organised cybercrime networks operating in the region.
The government has urged the public, particularly young people, not to be tempted by small payments offered for registering SIM cards. Officials warned that providing personal details or allowing facial scans to be used for SIM registration could expose individuals to criminal liability if the number is later linked to fraud.
Authorities said the crackdown on mule SIMs will continue as part of wider efforts to combat online scams and dismantle networks behind call centre fraud. Officials are also encouraging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
The Nation reported that anyone who discovers that a SIM card has been registered in their name without permission can report it through the Thai Police Online system. Reports can also be made through the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre (AOC) hotline by calling 1441, which operates 24 hours a day.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 9 Mar 2026