Pictures courtesy of TikTok/ @find_the_cash_phuket

 

Phuket residents have criticised a foreign TikToker for organising a cash-hunting game across the island, warning it could endanger participants and questioning the motive behind it. The game, which went viral after being reported by the Phuket Times Facebook page on November 9, has divided public opinion between concern and curiosity.

 

The challenge was launched by a TikTok user under the handle @find_the_cash_phuket, believed to be operated by a foreign national whose identity and nationality remain unconfirmed. In the account’s bio, the creator wrote, “We hide real cash around the island. No gambling.”The newly created account contained fewer than 20 videos, each showing the TikToker taping a 1,000-baht note in public places across Phuket. Short video clips of the surroundings provided clues for participants, while hidden cameras recorded the moment someone discovered the money.

 

Several clips showed smiling winners waving at the camera after finding the cash, though many Thai social media users expressed scepticism, suggesting the individuals in the videos could be accomplices. Others questioned the intent behind the giveaway and urged the creator to clarify the purpose of distributing cash in public.

 

Concerns have been raised about potential safety risks, with some residents warning that people might engage in reckless behaviour while searching for the hidden money. Many commenters called for local police and authorities to investigate the TikToker’s identity, visa status and whether their actions breached any laws. The legality of filming and publishing such content in public spaces was also questioned.

 

However, not all reactions were negative. A number of social media users defended the TikToker, arguing that the project was a harmless attempt to increase engagement and generate income through TikTok views. Some suggested that the videos could even serve as informal tourism promotion for Phuket.

 

The controversy follows a similar incident earlier this year involving a treasure-hunting game called Jagat, which sparked public backlash after participants trespassed on private property while searching for “Jagat coins.” These coins could be exchanged for cash prizes ranging from 500 to 200,000 baht, leading to widespread criticism over the risks and the requirement for players to share their live locations. Authorities in Phuket have yet to comment publicly on whether an investigation into the latest challenge will be launched.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• A foreign TikToker’s cash-hunting challenge in Phuket has drawn criticism and safety concerns.

• Locals have urged authorities to investigate the organiser’s identity and the legality of the activity.

• Some social media users view the game as harmless fun and potential tourism promotion.

 

 

  Adapted  by  Asean  Now from TheThaiger 2025-11-11

 

 

 

 

2 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Several clips showed smiling winners waving at the camera after finding the cash,

If they used hidden cameras

 

2 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

while hidden cameras recorded the moment someone discovered the money.

 

How did the person finding the money know to look and wave at the camera after finding the cash?

 

This is all about 'content'

 

As for 'some residents warning that people might engage in reckless behaviour' I'd say grow up and try to enjoy life !

Why would anyone bother visiting Phuket? Every single day the news reports more an more of these "Miserable" locals who seem to do nothing other than criticize foreign tourists - You know, the ones you constantly moan about not having enough, the ones that spend their cash to keep you in a job.

4 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Several clips showed smiling winners waving at the camera after finding the cash, though many Thai social media users expressed scepticism, suggesting the individuals in the videos could be accomplices. Others questioned the intent behind the giveaway and urged the creator to clarify the purpose of distributing cash in public.

It's a treasure hunt, chill-out and join in.

Finally something fun ! And of course, narrow minded people only see the dark side instead of enjoying the fun this can give to the people playing.

You can please some of the people some of the time,  but you can't please all of the people all of the time. It appears all of the people in Phuket, cannot be pleased at all.