Fake Online Reviews Land British Tourist in Thai Jail

A British tourist, identified only as Alexander, has been arrested in Thailand for allegedly posting fake negative reviews about a restaurant in Phuket. The 21-year-old reportedly attempted to use the restaurant as a shortcut to his residence but was denied entry by the owner for not being a customer.

According to authorities, Alexander retaliated by enlisting his friends to bombard the restaurant with one-star reviews, causing its online rating to plummet from 4.8 to 3.1 stars. The restaurant owner filed a complaint with the Sakhu Police Station, claiming the false reviews damaged their business's finances and reputation.

Following an investigation, the Central Investigation Bureau apprehended Alexander at his new apartment in Bangkok on May 9th. An arrest warrant had been issued against him for "entering false computer data likely to cause damage to the general public."

Police Major Jomparit Kaewreung of the Crime Suppression Division stated, "The suspect was transferred to the Sakhu Police Station for further legal proceedings. He maintains his innocence during questioning."

This incident highlights the seriousness of online defamation laws in Thailand. Defamation is considered a criminal offense, punishable by up to two years in prison.

In a similar case from 2020, an American tourist faced legal repercussions in Phuket after leaving a negative TripAdvisor review accusing a hotel of "modern-day slavery." The tourist was eventually released after an apology, but the case serves as a cautionary tale for visitors to Thailand.

SOURCE: METRO