Chaiyachonok acknowledged that he had been targeted by a call center scam at his office, urged the public to remain cautious, praised the Ministry of Digital Economy's success in reducing such scams by over 50% within eight months, and showed no concern about upcoming no-confidence debates focusing on the TH-AI Passport project.
On 15 Aug 2026 GMT+7 at Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong), Mr. Chaiyachonok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES), spoke about tackling call center gangs and scammers and whether he had been personally deceived. He said he had received scam calls at his DES office phone. When he engaged the caller and asked questions, once they realized he was aware of their tactics, they hung up. He warned the public to stay alert as scammers still exploit fear and greed using old deceptive methods. He credited the leadership of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, who, over eight months, prioritized integrated efforts across agencies to combat these scams. This coordination has improved results, with overall fraud decreasing by more than 50%, an unprecedented achievement by any new government. He thanked all government agencies, banks, and operators for their cooperation.
Asked about opposition plans to file a no-confidence motion in the upcoming parliamentary session and whether the TH-AI Passport project might be scrutinized, Chaiyachonok said it was inevitable. However, he was neither afraid nor worried, affirming that his team complies with all laws and regulations. He has conducted internal reviews, cooperated with the opposition by providing information, and revised contracts to benefit the government and the public more than before. Therefore, he has no concerns.
When questioned about his confidence in adequately explaining the matter to parliament, Chaiyachonok said he can provide correct explanations following all legal procedures, but he is certain that no matter how he explains, the opposition will remain unsatisfied.
Asked whether he is confident that parliamentary votes will align with his position, Chaiyachonok stated he is confident that their actions are good and necessary for the people, as they help reduce inequality. He referenced their participation at a global artificial intelligence conference in China, where their booth was uniquely recognized and praised by ministers from many countries because it helps address inequality.
Regarding whether, as party secretary-general, he needed to discuss with party MPs to ensure unified voting, Chaiyachonok responded that such discussions were unnecessary.
When asked if he had concerns about other issues, such as allegations of vote-rigging in the Senate, Chaiyachonok said he was not worried and reiterated that these are old matters currently under investigation.