Amid the relentless surge of cybersecurity threats, governments and technology agencies must embrace heightened awareness and implement meticulous data protection strategies. The escalating cyber threats necessitate a proactive stance, where staying one step ahead is crucial to safeguarding crucial information assets.

In this dynamic digital landscape, where information is a commodity, governments must acknowledge the evolving nature of cyber threats and continuously fortify their cybersecurity measures. Rapid technological advancements bring new challenges, requiring adaptive and innovative solutions to balance potential vulnerabilities.

Collaboration between government bodies, regulatory agencies, and technology experts is paramount in fostering a collective defence against cyber threats towards data privacy. Sharing insights, intelligence, and best practices creates a robust cybersecurity ecosystem capable of anticipating and mitigating emerging risks.

To secure public information and ensure data privacy, Mr Prasert Chandraruangthong, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society, has initiated measures to combat leaks and the illicit trade of personal information. Recognising the situation’s urgency, the Minister outlined a comprehensive plan divided into three periods—30 days, six months, and 12 months.

During the first 30-day period, the Office of the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDC) established the Personal Data Violation Surveillance Centre to investigate public information disclosures promptly. The operations conducted this November inspected 3,119 government and private sector agencies. The PDPC detected data leaks in 1,158 cases, leading to corrective actions taken by the agencies in 781 instances. Notably, three issues of personal data trading were uncovered, prompting investigations and prosecutions in collaboration with The Police Technology Crime Investigation Headquarters.

Simultaneously, the PDPC, under the directive of the Police Technology Crime Investigation Headquarters, expedited inspections of 9,000 agencies within the next 30 days. This initiative targeted government agencies deemed critical information infrastructure (CII), including those in the energy, public health, government services, finance, and banking sectors.

During the inspections, the cybersecurity systems of 91 agencies were examined. Of these, 21 were identified as having high levels of risk, prompting corrective actions by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).

The third measure involves collaborative efforts between the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), NBTC, and relevant agencies such as the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Thai Industries, Thai Bankers Association, Thai Life Assurance Association, Thai Hotel Association, and the media sector network. The objective is to raise awareness about personal data protection and prevent potential risks from inadequate security procedures. This includes knowledge-sharing sessions on maintaining cybersecurity through Cybersecurity Awareness Training. The collaborative initiative emphasises preventing intrusion from outsiders, securing system settings, and enforcing the law within the purview of the authorities.

For the subsequent six-month period, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) will expedite efforts to block illegal trading of personal information. Offenders will be actively pursued, prosecuted, and arrested to ensure a swift and effective response in safeguarding the privacy and security of individuals’ data.

This strategy underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging digital technology to fortify data protection measures and create a safer online environment for all citizens by partnering with other entities.

OpenGov Asia reported that Thailand is strategically addressing escalating cybersecurity concerns with a multi-faceted approach involving tech, partnerships, specialised task forces, public relations efforts and training programmes to fortify cyber resilience and foster innovation.

The Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Mr Prasert Chandraruangthong, along with Professor Wisit Wisitsaratha, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, and ministry executives from affiliated agencies, recently conducted a meeting to review strategies to address cybercrime problems, notably personal data leaks. Thus far, Thailand has generated several ideas concerning cyber threats, particularly in financial cybersecurity. Mr Prasert Chandraruangthong has initiated several steps and frameworks to address these issues: