DEVELOPING THE CAPACITY OF COMMUNITY-BASED NETWORKS FOR ONLINE FRAUD ALERT IN NONTHABURI PROVINCE

Abstract

Statistics on online fraud and the escalating worth of damages have a significant impact. The development of preventive measures is therefore both essential and imperative. Research article aimed to investigate and enhance the capacities of community-based networks for online fraud alerts in Nonthaburi Province. The study employed research and development methodology and purposive sampling for the selection of key informants. Fifty-one key informants encompassed community leaders and residents of the Suanyai, Taladkwan, and Bangken subdistricts in Muang Nonthaburi District using three research instruments: an interview form, focus group questions, and a capacity assessment form. The qualitative data underwent content analysis, and the quantitative data was examined by inferential statistics to compare the means pre-and post-training. The research findings revealed that community networks can prevent and manage online fraud, including 1) Acquiring knowledge through training offered by government agencies. 2) A fundamental capability entailed the ongoing collection of information from community committee meetings and pertinent individuals. 3) Another capability involved the establishment of prompt communication channels via wire broadcasting and the LINE application. and 4) There was the ability to conduct regular face-to-face discussions. The research team developed an instructional manual designed to augment the ability of community networks to combat online fraud at all phases: prior to, during, and post an incident, employing the online fraud prevention application “SafetyVacc.” The evaluation results indicated enhancements in competence and knowledge related to online fraud prevention, both in general and for each specific item, subsequent to the training. This study enhanced the comprehension of “digital community alert networks” by amalgamating technology and training via collaboration among community members and government agencies.