THAILAND – The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has raised the alarm: in just one week, over one million suspicious news items were detected—1,031 of which were confirmed as dangerous fake news. At the forefront of these falsehoods: the government’s digital wallet program and alleged border conflicts with Cambodia.
The Week’s Most Bizarre Fake News
The Thailand Anti-Fake News Centre (AFNC) released its top 10 most absurd fake news stories for October 3–9, 2025. The range is staggering, from hazardous health myths to calculated political disinformation campaigns.
One widely circulated rumor claimed that registration for the digital wallet program would begin between October 1 and 5—a claim the Ministry of Finance swiftly denied. Even more alarming was the assertion that Cambodian soldiers had established a base at Prasat Khana.
Among the most outlandish: a report suggesting that women who abstain from sex risk brain death and ovarian cancer, and another claiming that moving your index finger 100 times a day could improve your liver, brain, and eyesight.
Government Strikes Back
Government spokesperson Suchada Zhang Thaensap warned, “All these fake news items can cause confusion, panic, and the loss of assets or personal data.” Authorities are responding rapidly:
Regarding the digital wallet, the Ministry of Digital Economy collaborated with the Ministry of Finance to confirm that the circulating information was false. There is currently no third phase of the project.
As for the border rumors, officials coordinated with the Royal Thai Army and clarified that the supposed military buildup was, in reality, just a wooden staircase for tourists—no threat whatsoever.
Social Media: The Accelerant
AFNC data reveals a clear trend: most fake news spreads via social media channels. Of the cases tracked, 151 involved government policy and national security, while 44 related to online crime.
Particularly alarming were rumors of a plane crash in Bangkok with 750 fatalities and the bizarre claim that the traditional Khon mask dance performance actually belongs to Cambodia.
Combating the Flood of Lies
The ministry urges all citizens to exercise caution: “Always verify facts and website links before sharing anything!” Misinformation can lead to financial losses and personal harm.
In an increasingly digital society, the fight against fake news has become a national priority. The AFNC works around the clock to identify and debunk the most dangerous falsehoods.
Truth Prevails—But Only With Everyone’s Help
This weekly report makes one thing clear: the flood of disinformation shows no sign of abating. While the government pushes back, every citizen has a responsibility to handle news responsibly.
How do you deal with fake news?
Do you trust official government sources—or do you believe that Thais today can barely distinguish real from fake news?