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In an era marked by rapid technological advancement, the Thai government is prioritising cyber safety and citizen protection within the digital landscape. Mr Wetangk Phuangsap, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE), recently underscored this commitment during a lecture at the King Prajadhipok’s Institute, where he addressed participants of the Advanced Broadcasting and Telecommunications Business Law Supervision and Development Diploma Course (ADBTL).
His remarks centred on the significance of developing knowledge and skills, facilitating experience exchange, and enhancing personnel training in the communications and telecommunications sectors to effectively navigate the challenges posed by technological changes.
This week, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) reported a concerning rise in fake news related to online crimes, with the most notable misinformation suggesting registration for victim protection from call centre scams through a fraudulent Online Crime Rights Protection Agency page.
Another prevalent hoax involved the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) allegedly partnering with the Technology Crime Suppression Division to facilitate refunds for victims of online fraud. Mr Wetangk urged the public to remain vigilant, emphasising the dangers of sharing unverified information, which could jeopardise personal data and financial security.
To combat these threats, the Thai government has implemented a comprehensive strategy focusing on awareness, prevention, and enforcement. This includes the establishment of the Anti-Fake News Center, which actively monitors social media and online platforms to identify and counter misinformation.
Between September 20 and 26, 2024, this center detected a staggering 842,624 messages, of which 310 required further verification. The primary sources of these suspicious messages included Social Listening and Line Official accounts, highlighting the prevalence of misinformation across various digital platforms.
Through collaboration with relevant agencies, 107 issues were verified, revealing that all ten of the most concerning fake news stories involved misleading transactions falsely attributed to government entities. The leading false claim impersonated AMLO, inaccurately asserting that it was facilitating registrations for call centre fraud victims.
Mr Wetangk stressed the urgency of addressing these fraudulent communications, stating, “The creation of fake pages, such as the ‘Online Crime Protection Agency,’ undermines public trust and poses significant risks to our citizens.”
The Thai government’s proactive measures extend beyond monitoring and verification. Education and public awareness campaigns play a crucial role in enhancing digital literacy among citizens. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is dedicated to informing the public about the risks associated with online misinformation and promoting responsible sharing practices.
Workshops, seminars, and outreach programmes are being held to equip citizens with the skills needed to discern credible information from fraudulent sources.
Moreover, Thailand is enhancing its regulatory framework to combat cybercrime effectively. This includes stricter enforcement of laws related to online fraud and the development of robust reporting mechanisms for victims of cybercrimes. The government is also working on improving inter-agency collaboration to streamline responses to online threats and ensure that victims receive timely support.
As part of its commitment to citizen safety, the Thai government is investing in technology and infrastructure to bolster cybersecurity defences. This involves the implementation of advanced monitoring systems to track and mitigate online threats, as well as fostering partnerships with private sector organisations to enhance cybersecurity capabilities.
Thailand’s multi-faceted approach to cyber safety underscores its commitment to creating a secure digital environment for all citizens. By focusing on education, awareness, and collaboration among stakeholders, the government aims to protect its citizens from the dangers of online crimes and misinformation. Through these strategic actions, Thailand is positioning itself as a leader in promoting cybersecurity and ensuring the safety and well-being of its digital citizens.
