A program to stimulate domestic travel through cash rebates will return in May with more safeguards to prevent the abuses which led to nearly THB2 billion in fraud.
Krung Thai Bank, which manages the Rao Tiow Gan program, will require users to authenticate their identities using facial recognition in its upgraded smartphone app to prevent the fraud perpetrated by travel agents in collusion with participating hotels and restaurants, according tourism authority head Yuthasak Supasorn.
The government plans to reintroduce the program; which launched in July to subsidize hotel stays, air travel and spending; with funds to partially reimburse travelers for two million nights of hotel stays.
Among other changes, travelers will also have to book their accommodations at least a week in advance.
The daily e-vouchers available to spend on some participating food, services and…
