Thai Online dating can be a great and east way to meet new people, especially while traveling but dating scams in Thailand are also easy to fall for, as one unfortunate traveler recently discovered, it can also be a dangerous game when scammers are involved. His story serves as a warning to others who are considering using dating apps while visiting Thailand.
A Dream Trip Turns Into a Nightmare
A young man from Ireland, traveling with two friends, embarked on a two-month adventure in Thailand. Their trip had been perfect—partying, sightseeing, and meeting new people—until he decided to try out ThaiFriendly to connect with local women.
He began chatting with a woman who seemed friendly and flirtatious. Their conversations quickly escalated into explicit exchanges, with both parties sharing private photos and videos. Feeling comfortable, he didn’t think twice about sending intimate content. Unfortunately, that decision would soon lead to a terrifying experience.
The dating scams in Thailand, blackmail Begins
The next morning, he received an alarming message from an old school acquaintance, someone he barely knew and hadn’t spoken to in years. The message contained a video—the same explicit video he had sent to the woman the night before. It was sent from a fake Facebook account, and the nightmare had just begun.
Upon checking WhatsApp, he saw more messages from the woman. She had taken screenshots of his Facebook friends list, which included family, coworkers, and close friends. She demanded 50,000 Thai Baht (THB), threatening to send the videos and pictures to everyone on his list if he didn’t comply. To prove she wasn’t bluffing, she had already sent the video to one of his Facebook friends as a warning.
Panic and Desperation
Fear and anxiety set in that he was so stupid to fall for dating scams in Thailand but this one is so easy to fall for. He pleaded with the blackmailer, but she remained cold and focused solely on getting the money. Desperate to buy some time, he lied about his financial situation, promising to pay in monthly installments. He sent 10,000 THB as a temporary solution while he figured out what to do next. However, he quickly realized that giving in to blackmail would only lead to more demands.
He knew that paying the full amount wouldn’t end the threats—it would only encourage the scammer to ask for more. At this point, he felt trapped and unsure of his next move.
What Can Be Done to minimize the damage of dating scams in Thailand?
If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, here are some steps to take:
1. Stop Communicating with the Scammer
Once they see that you are engaging with them, they will continue to pressure you. Block them on all platforms and do not respond to their demands.
2. Do Not Pay Them
Paying a blackmailer only shows them that you are willing to comply. They will likely continue extorting you for more money over time.
3. Report to the Authorities
Even though it may feel embarrassing, it is crucial to report such scams to the local police or tourist police. If the money was transferred through a bank, they may be able to track down the scammers.
4. Inform Your Friends and Family
It may seem like the worst thing in the world, but letting your loved ones know what happened can take away the scammer’s power. Many people have found themselves in similar situations, and it’s important to remember that you are not alone.
5. Raise Awareness
Scammers use dating apps and social media to target unsuspecting travelers. Sharing this experience can help prevent others from falling victim to the same trap.
Unfortunately, dating scams in Thailand like these are becoming more common, and they can happen anywhere in the world—not just in Thailand. Romance scams, catfishing, and blackmail are real dangers in the digital age. The best defense is to be cautious about who you interact with online and never share private content with strangers.
To anyone traveling abroad and using dating apps: be careful, stay smart, and always think twice before sending anything personal. If you or someone you know has experienced something similar, reporting it can help others avoid the same fate.
If you have any advice or personal stories of some other dating scams in Thailand to share, feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to us anonymously. Stay safe, and remember—prevention is better than cure.
