Thailand's Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) has launched a major crackdown on an alleged online gambling syndicate accused of generating more than THB2.5bn in annual transactions through AI-generated celebrity deepfakes and sophisticated payment channels.
As reported by local media, investigators found the group had created manipulated videos and audio impersonating popular singer-actress Arpaporn "Hai" Nakornsawan without her knowledge or consent. The AI-generated clips were circulated through Facebook accounts under the name "Hai's Formula" to encourage users to register on illegal gambling platforms.
The investigation eventually led police to a gambling website known as KFC888, which allegedly offered football betting, online lottery products and other forms of illegal gaming.
Authorities also uncovered the suspected use of a well-known payment gateway company to process gambling-related funds. According to investigators, the platform, which normally facilitates legitimate payments such as utility bills and e-wallet transactions, was allegedly exploited to disguise gambling transfers and make the movement of funds more difficult to detect.
Financial analysis indicated the operation processed approximately THB120 million each month, resulting in an estimated annual turnover exceeding THB2.5bn.
Police executed search warrants at two locations, including a luxury residence in Bangkok's Ramkhamhaeng district and the offices of the payment gateway company in Sathon. Officers seized computers, electronic equipment and business documents believed to be connected to the investigation.
Hai Arpaporn, who attended a police press conference, said she had been monitoring the fake advertisements for several months after receiving reports from fans. She stressed that she had never endorsed gambling websites and sought assistance from authorities to protect her reputation from further misuse.
Police have since summoned executives from the payment gateway company to answer allegations of facilitating illegal gambling operations and violating computer crime laws. Investigators also warned that payment service providers are required to comply with Bank of Thailand regulations and could face additional charges, including money laundering offenses, if they fail to prevent their platforms from being used for criminal activities.
Thai authorities have increasingly focused on the use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, in cyber-enabled crimes such as illegal online gambling and fraud
