Phuket: Teenagers and working people are trending to hunt for coins to exchange for cash prizes through the Indonesian app ‘Jagat Coin Hunt’. Cyber police warn that participating in coin hunting activities may be considered a crime of trespassing.
According to Thai News Agency, in Phuket Province, in various areas in the municipality, public parks, and old town, groups of teenagers and working adults have come out to search for coins at various coordinates listed in the Jagat Coin Hunt application. Some participants have been successful, which has encouraged many others to partake in the hope of finding coins and cashing them in.
In Chiang Mai, a surveillance camera from a house captured a group of teenagers hunting for Jagat coins along the side of the road and near residential properties. This activity has disrupted local residents, with reports of property damage such as trampled plants and trespassed fences. The homeowner noted that the teenagers arrived by motorcycle, searching intently for coins, prompting locals to urge participants to respect private properties and boundaries.
The news team visited areas where the app indicated available Jagat coins. Originally, there were 29 coins, but only 1-2 coins remain. Despite several days of searching, many teenagers have yet to find a coin. Concerns have been raised about potential invasions of private space and the app’s risk of compromising personal information, prompting participants to exercise more caution.
Meanwhile, Pattaya Water Space, a well-known tourist destination, suffered damages due to unauthorized coin hunting activities. Property damage included tampered electrical plugs and cracked cement from motorcycles driven up the stairs. Consequently, the venue has restricted access to outsiders and plans to take legal action against those involved.
Cyber police have cautioned the public regarding the risks associated with the coin hunting activities, including potential trespassing charges that could result in imprisonment or fines. Participants are also warned of the dangers of sharing personal information, which could be exploited by criminals for harmful purposes.
Jagat, meaning ‘universe’ in Indonesian, has gained popularity among teenagers with its ‘Coin Hunt’ feature. Launched in early 2025, the app allows users to physically search for coins to redeem cash prizes. The app has become a social media sensation, particularly on TikTok, though it has faced criticism over safety and social implications.
The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) reported that no agency currently oversees gaming apps like Jagat. However, they are monitoring the situation, as no formal complaints have been filed yet. The app poses risks of privacy invasion and financial data exposure, with players required to disclose sensitive information to participate.
The Personal Data Protection Committee (PDPC) is preparing to engage with the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) regarding the app’s potential security risks. Initial investigations acknowledge the app’s ability to access user information and location, raising concerns about possible unauthorized financial transactions. The PDPC is coordinating with relevant agencies to develop strategies to safeguard users’ privacy and prevent potential damages.