BANGKOK, Thailand – The government has intensified its crackdown on illegal online gambling during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, blocking over 13,000 illicit websites in 18 days and issuing severe warnings against copyright infringement for unauthorized public broadcasts. Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploytalay Laksameesangchan reported that relevant agencies have integrated artificial intelligence to detect and intercept gambling-related social media pages and platforms. Following directives from Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to establish proactive enforcement, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society collaborated with online service providers to execute standing court orders. This coordinated effort disabled 13,888 illegal gambling URLs between June 1 and June 18.
The deputy spokesperson encouraged the public and business operators to engage with the tournament legally and constructively, fostering respect for intellectual property and supporting the legitimate growth of the sports and media industries. She firmly reminded the public to avoid all forms of illegal gambling. She also warned that commercial establishments, restaurants, or individuals who reproduce, record, or spread live broadcast signals without explicit authorization from the designated Thai rights holders will face strict legal action. Commercial copyright infringement carries penalties including imprisonment from six months to four years, fines of 100,000 to 800,000 baht, or both. (NNT)
