Thai authorities have issued a strong warning that individuals who allow their identities to be used to register so-called mule SIM cards for criminal operations could face up to three years in prison as the government intensifies its campaign against online fraud and cybercrime.

Officials say criminal networks increasingly rely on mule SIM cards—mobile numbers registered under other people’s identities—to run call-centre scams, phishing operations and other forms of digital fraud.

By using SIM cards opened by paid intermediaries, criminals attempt to conceal their identities and evade law-enforcement tracking.

The government has stressed that those who accept payment to register SIM cards for others, even if they do not directly participate in scams, can be held legally responsible for enabling criminal activity.

Under Thai law, individuals found guilty of providing such assistance may face imprisonment of up to three years, financial penalties or both.

Authorities say the crackdown forms part of a broader national effort to dismantle organised scam networks that have targeted victims both inside Thailand and abroad.

Investigators have reported a rise in cases where people are recruited through social media or messaging apps and offered small payments to purchase or register SIM cards that are later used by criminal groups.

Law-enforcement agencies have urged the public to remain vigilant and refuse offers to register SIM cards on behalf of unknown individuals or organisations.

Officials warn that even seemingly minor participation in these schemes can facilitate large-scale fraud operations that cause significant financial harm to victims.

The government has also been working closely with telecommunications providers to tighten SIM card registration procedures and improve monitoring systems designed to detect suspicious activity.

Enhanced verification measures and data-sharing between telecom operators and authorities are intended to make it harder for criminal groups to acquire anonymous phone numbers.

Thailand has been expanding its broader strategy to combat digital crime as online scams and cross-border fraud operations grow more sophisticated.

Authorities say the campaign aims not only to dismantle criminal networks but also to raise public awareness about the legal risks of participating in schemes that help scammers operate.

Officials emphasise that protecting citizens from financial fraud remains a national priority.

By warning the public about mule SIM schemes and strengthening enforcement, the government hopes to cut off a critical tool used by cybercriminal groups and reinforce trust in Thailand’s digital and telecommunications systems.