The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has introduced a multi-faceted strategy to safeguard foreign tourists from being overcharged and scammed.
It comes after tourists reported being targeted by tuk-tuk and taxi drivers, pressured into visiting specific shops and facing different forms of exploitation.
Some of the key measures include:
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AI-powered security detection: The BMA will equip its extensive network of security cameras with AI to detect traffic violations, vendors blocking sidewalks, and illegal parking in tourist areas, alerting authorities to possible infringements.
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Trustworthy businesses certification: Certification will be offered to tuk-tuks, taxis and shops, ensuring they practise fair pricing and ethical treatment of tourists. These businesses will be identifiable by a BMA registration sticker, with signage warning tourists about potential scams.
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Public awareness: The BMA will publish helpful information for tourists, including emergency contact numbers and guides listing the certified trustworthy businesses.
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Joint enforcement: The initiative will be a collaborative effort between the BMA and other government agencies to identify businesses and individuals engaging in deceptive practices and overcharging.
