Bangkok: Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP and deputy leader of the Prachachon Party, has voiced significant concerns over the use of iris scans for villagers to receive digital payments, fearing this practice could lead to data misuse and fraud. As chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on State Security, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy, and National Reform, Rome disclosed the committee’s findings from a recent meeting aimed at boosting public confidence against call center scams and bolstering national security.
According to Thai News Agency, Rome highlighted the lack of comprehensive data from various agencies, which hampers effective monitoring of the situation. He emphasized the need for collaboration between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Cyber Police, and the Anti-Money Laundering Office to address these issues. Rome expressed disappointment over the discovery that the biometric data trading, involving iris scans for a 2,000 baht cryptocurrency payment, is linked to a company associated with Ben Smith’s partner, raising potential legal and ethical concerns.
The practice of exchanging biometric data for payments, rather than selling it, allows for the creation of fraudulent online identities, becoming a resource for scammers. The concern extends to over one million individuals, including both Thais and migrant workers, who have already undergone iris scanning. The financial instability of these individuals makes them vulnerable targets. Investigations suggest a possible connection to Yim Liak, a notable figure at BIC Bank and an associate of Ben Smith, potentially elevating the issue to a biometrics-related crime with damages surpassing 2 billion baht.
Rome underscored the global nature of this problem, involving multinational entities with complex procedures that obscure those benefiting from money laundering activities. He urged the SEC to consult with the Monetary Authority of Singapore for international cooperation in tackling these multinational corporations and illicit financial networks.
To address the ongoing challenges, Rome assigned Mr. Manop Kiriphuwadon, a fellow party-list MP, to temporarily chair the committee, focusing on justice reform and corruption allegations linked to the Deputy Minister of Industry.
Rome reiterated his concerns over the handling of biometric data, especially with reports of villagers being recruited for iris scans in exchange for 500 baht, highlighting the potential risks associated with data management. He called for clear protocols on the collection, control, and use of such sensitive information, stressing the deeper implications of iris scans compared to facial recognition.
“I’m not saying iris scans are prohibited, but I’m asking how they’ll be collected, controlled, and used, as the iris is deeper than a facial scan,” Rome stated, emphasizing the importance of preparedness among Thai government officials to address these critical issues.