Govt warns against using falsified info to get cash handouts

Dr Taweesilp Visanuyothin, spokesman for the government’s Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration, said on Monday that 24.2 million people registered for the scheme via website www.เราไม่ทิ้งกัน.com (“We do not leave anyone behind”), which is significantly higher than the government’s earlier estimation of around three million people.
The campaign offers eligible citizens whose livelihoods were impacted by Covid-19 Bt5,000 a month for three months. To be eligible, candidates must be Thai nationals, aged over 18, be self-employed, freelance or non-permanent employees who are not covered under social security.
“The government is concerned the budget for this campaign might be inadequate and could affect other budgets, including those for medical equipment,” Taweesilp said. “We urge people to register for the cash handouts only if they fit the criteria and really need financial support. Registrants who are not qualified to receive the money but have used falsified information to register might face the charge of violating the Computer-related Crime Act BE 2550 (2007),” he warned.
Section 14 of the Act stipulates that those who key into a computer system distorted or forged information or data in a manner that is likely to cause damage to another person or the public will be subject to imprisonment not exceeding three years and a fine not exceeding Bt60,000, or both.
“If you have already registered and realised that you are not qualified, there’s an option to cancel the registration,” Taweesilp added. “This would help speed up the screening process as well as make sure the money goes to those who really need it.”
The Finance Ministry reported that so far more than 260,000 persons have cancelled their applications, while the first batch of cash will go to people starting tomorrow (April 8).