Section 384 — Petty fraud (up to 1,000 baht)
English translation
Whoever defrauds another person, where the amount defrauded does not exceed one thousand baht, shall be liable to imprisonment not exceeding one month, or a fine not exceeding ten thousand baht, or both.
This English translation is provided for reference only and has not yet been firm-verified — always rely on the Thai original.
Firm annotation
This section is the low-value counterpart to the main fraud offence in the property-crimes provisions of the Code. The elements mirror ordinary fraud, namely deceiving another and thereby obtaining property, but the section applies only where the amount defrauded does not exceed 1,000 baht, capping liability at the petty-offence level. The value threshold is the sole distinguishing feature; the deceptive conduct required is the same as for the graver fraud offence.
Why this matters in practice
Penalty exposure is modest, one month's imprisonment or a fine up to 10,000 baht. Fraud is generally a compoundable offence in Thailand, so at this petty level the parties can usually settle the matter, and a genuine settlement often resolves the case. Where the deception is clear but the sum small, negotiating repayment is frequently the most practical course. For an overview of how fraud complaints work in Thailand, see our guide to fraud and scam laws in Thailand.
Frequently asked questions
When does fraud fall under Section 384 instead of the main fraud offence?
Section 384 applies when the amount defrauded does not exceed 1,000 baht, treating the deception as a petty offence rather than ordinary fraud.
Can petty fraud under Section 384 be settled?
Fraud is generally a compoundable offence in Thailand, so at this petty level the parties can usually reach a settlement that resolves the matter.