Search for Solace Ends in Scam
A 70-year-old man from Udon Thani has become the latest victim of an online scam after spending over 50,000 baht on what he believed was a high-end silicone sex doll. The man, who asked to be identified only as “Tony,” now hopes his story will serve as a warning to others.
Tony, a retired contractor who recently returned to Thailand after more than 30 years abroad, said he had been feeling lonely and vulnerable when he came across a Facebook ad promoting “beautiful silicone dolls delivered nationwide.”
“I’d been single for 22 years,” he explained. “I thought this might be a way to have some companionship. The doll in the ad looked like a stunning Eurasian model. I thought, why not?”
Too Good to Be True
The Facebook page showcased rows of lifelike dolls, promising realistic “real-feel” skin, adjustable limbs, and discreet shipping. The page admin offered Tony a discount if he wired the full amount—51,000 baht—upfront.
“I was promised delivery in five days. But after I paid, they just stopped replying. No shipping info, no confirmation. Nothing,” Tony said, holding up screenshots of the chat and his bank transfer slip. “That’s when I knew I’d been conned.”
He plans to file a complaint with the Cyber Police in Udon Thani and is collecting all his documentation as evidence.
Sex Dolls in a Legal Grey Area
In Thailand, sex toys—including silicone dolls—exist in a murky legal zone. Officially, their import and sale are prohibited under the Customs Act, where such items are classified as “obscene.” However, enforcement remains inconsistent, and many vendors openly advertise adult products on social media platforms.
Tony’s experience sheds light on the growing risks faced by consumers navigating this unregulated market.
Scams on the Rise
Cybercrime experts warn that scams involving sex toys and adult products are increasingly targeting the socially isolated and elderly.
“These fraudsters use fake profiles, stolen photos, and persuasive sales tactics to lure victims,” said a spokesperson from the Thai Cyber Police. “We urge everyone to be skeptical of too-good-to-be-true offers and report suspicious sellers immediately.”
“Loneliness is No Joke”
Despite the embarrassment, Tony said he chose to come forward to help others.
“People laugh at me, but I’m not ashamed. I was just looking for some company. Loneliness is no joke, especially at my age,” he said.
Now wiser—and financially wounded—Tony has a message for anyone considering a similar purchase: “Next time, I’ll think twice before clicking ‘order now.’”
