Bangkok: In a recent announcement, the government has issued a stern warning to citizens about the dangers of exchanging iris scans for monetary rewards, stating that the risks involved outweigh any potential gains.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Anukul Prueksanusak, the Deputy Government Spokesperson, highlighted the rapid advancements in technology and innovation that have permeated various aspects of life, including security. Biometric authentication systems such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and iris scanning have become increasingly prevalent. However, these advancements also present new challenges, particularly concerning data security.
A report from the Consumer Council of Thailand (CCC) has brought to light that certain areas in Thailand are incentivizing residents to provide iris scans in exchange for 500 to 1,000 baht, payable in cryptocurrency. Participants receive a reward of 1,000 baht within 24 hours, with a referral bonus of 500 baht per person, up to a maximum of 10 referrals.
Mr. Anukul emphasized the value of biometric data, including fingerprints, facial scans, and iris patterns, as they are unique identifiers that are difficult to alter. This makes them a prime target for misuse if not properly secured. He outlined several risks associated with exchanging such sensitive data: potential data leaks, impersonation for financial or service access, and the creation of deepfakes for cybercrimes.
He further noted that countries like Spain, Brazil, India, and Germany have restrictions on using iris scans for personal data collection, reflecting global concerns about these practices. The government is urging the public to consider the long-term implications of trading personal biometric data for short-term financial gains, warning that any future damage could be severe and irreversible.