Thailand’s rising tourism is drawing attention not only for its beaches and culture but also for a growing online scam epidemic. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand has issued a critical alert for foreign visitors: do not pay any fee to register for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). The registration is completely free, and any website demanding payment is operating outside official channels.
Fake Websites Capitalise on Travel Surge
As foreign arrivals to Thailand rebound, scammers are exploiting the momentum. Fraudulent websites dressed up to look like the real TDAC portal are charging travellers illegal fees. They often mimic the official design, logos or layout, but one major red flag is clear: they request payment for submitting a form that should cost nothing. The Ministry emphasises that any site collecting money for TDAC registration is not an official Thai government website.
What the Official Process Looks Like
The TDAC is part of Thailand’s modernised entry system designed to simplify immigration and reduce waiting times. Visitors must fill out their details online before arrival. The legitimate submission is processed at no cost, and only through the government-designated portal of the Immigration Bureau. Tourists who stick to this channel enjoy the simplicity of the process, safe in the knowledge that no payment is required.
How to Spot Fake Websites
To avoid falling prey to scams, travellers should stay alert for the following warning signs:
- Requests for payment: If a website asks to charge you for TDAC registration, it is fraudulent.
- Suspicious or misspelled domains: Fake sites often use odd domain names, misspellings, or extensions that do not match the official “.go.th” or other legit Thai government domains.
- Unsecured pages or missing HTTPS: The real portal uses secure connections; fake ones may not.
- Poor design, broken links or errors: Shoddy website design or grammar mistakes often reveal low-quality scam sites.
- Urgency tactics or countdowns: Many fake services pressure you with urgent messages to act quickly and pay.
What to Do If You Encounter a Fraudulent Site
If you land on a suspicious website:
- Do not enter personal or payment details. Avoid giving any sensitive information.
- Report the site. The Thai authorities have hotlines and online complaint centers for submitting URLs and screenshots of fake sites.
- Spread the word. Share the warning with fellow travellers or groups so others do not make the same mistake.
Tips to Stay Safe and Secure During Your Visit
Travellers can protect themselves easily by following a few best practices:
- Use the official government site to fill in the arrival card. Bookmark the correct page ahead of your journey.
- Rely on trusted information sources, such as your airline, hotel, or official travel-advisory pages.
- Confirm payment methods only if you are certain you’re dealing with a legitimate service. But since TDAC is free, any payment request is a red flag.
- Stay updated on travel regulations. Entry requirements, forms and online systems may change. Keeping informed ensures a smoother arrival.
Why This Matters for Your Trip
Falling victim to a scam not only wastes money but could jeopardise your arrival process. You may face delays, extra checks or complications at immigration. By sticking to official channels and verifying website authenticity, you safeguard your travel experience and help authorities crack down on fraud.
Final Thought: Smooth Arrival Starts with Smart Registration
Thailand welcomes tourists with its vibrant culture, scenic landscapes and warm hospitality. But in this digital age, arriving stress-free depends on vigilance. Choose the correct site for your TDAC registration, skip any service that charges you, and approach with confidence. A few minutes of caution now will help ensure your Thai adventure starts on the right foot—safe, secure and scam-free.
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