Supamas has ordered a crackdown on a fake airline ticket ring that deceived travelers to Japan, Korea, and Europe, causing losses exceeding 10 million baht. She directed the Consumer Protection Board (CPB) to swiftly resolve all cases and work with the Crime Suppression Division to pursue fraudsters posing as travel agencies, while advising three checks before transferring money to prevent fraudsters.
On 16 May 2026, Ms. Supamas Isarapakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and supervisor of the Consumer Protection Board (CPB), revealed that victims had lodged complaints with CPB against a travel agency company that tricked customers into buying airline tickets to Japan, Korea, and Europe. The agency falsely claimed to offer airline promotions but failed to deliver tickets, preventing customers from traveling, resulting in damages exceeding 10 million baht.
Ms. Supamas said that the latest investigation shows CPB has received eight complaints regarding such fake airline tickets, totaling over 10 million baht in damages. The scam initially involved building trust by delivering tickets and enabling travel, which led to word-of-mouth referrals. However, starting April 2026, the company stopped issuing tickets and demanded additional payments, claiming these were for fuel surcharges and airport taxes. Even after paying more, customers still did not receive tickets, and refund requests were indefinitely postponed. This aligns with government measures led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to protect citizens from online fraud.
"I have instructed CPB to set up a special task force to urgently handle these complaints, creating special channels for all victims to access protection processes as quickly as possible. Officials have summoned consumers and sent notices to the businesses and airlines involved to meet officials on 21 May 2026 to clarify facts. Negotiations for refunds may follow, but if no agreement is reached, legal action will proceed on behalf of consumers. Concurrently, CPB is coordinating with the Crime Suppression Division to pursue criminal charges against the fraudulent ring without exceptions. I affirm that CPB’s work is not only about public inspections but also about behind-the-scenes case management and victim assistance running in parallel for every case."
Ms. Supamas further stated that she has instructed the CPB Secretary-General to report progress on consumer assistance every seven days and publicly disclose information periodically, so the public can see tangible results and be confident that no complaint is overlooked. She also reminded the public to follow the “3 Checks” before transferring money:
“Check identity” – It is best to purchase directly from airline service providers or trusted platforms. If buying through agencies or tour operators, verify their business licenses with the Department of Tourism or confirm with the airline whether the agency is an authorized seller.
“Check price” – Be cautious of tickets priced abnormally lower compared to official airline websites.
“Check transfer conditions” – Avoid transferring money to personal bank accounts. If asked for additional payments to fix a “previous deal,” assume it is a scam.
"Anyone exploiting online gaps to take advantage of consumers will face serious action from the government and CPB, with no impunity. When one victim emerges, I will order investigations into similar cases in all instances. Every consumer suffering harm will receive assistance. I urge all citizens to thoroughly verify before transferring money."
Consumers who feel unfairly treated can seek more information or file complaints with the Consumer Protection Board (CPB) via the hotline 1166, the website www.ocpb.go.th, or the OCPB Connect mobile application.