BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has declared the fight against online scams a national security priority, granting state agencies immediate authority to shut down systems used for fraud without prior clearance from the National Security Council (NSC). The announcement came yesterday (Oct 20) during the first meeting of the National Steering Committee on the Prevention and Suppression of Technology-Related Crimes, held at Government House and attended by top officials from across law enforcement, justice, and digital security sectors.
The Prime Minister cited the growing scale and cross-border nature of online scams as a threat to Thailand’s national credibility and economic stability. Agencies have been ordered to improve coordination and expand public communication while continuing investigations and crackdowns. Existing powers under a previous NSC resolution now allow officials to block or suspend services aiding scam networks without further approvals, expediting the government’s enforcement response.
Five sub-committees will be formed to lead operations across key areas, including investigations, financial tracking, digital infrastructure, and public awareness. The Royal Thai Police, Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, Ministry of Justice, AMLO, and Ministry of Interior will take lead roles, with formal appointments to follow under the Prime Minister’s directive. Efforts to halt illegal cross-border transmissions are also underway, including enforcement of bilateral conditions agreed upon with Cambodia.
Addressing recent claims that Thai politicians may be linked to scam operations, Anutin confirmed no official list has been submitted but said any credible evidence would lead to immediate legal action regardless of the individual’s status. Investigations into both Thai and foreign nationals are ongoing through financial intelligence units and law enforcement agencies.
The meeting also approved the expansion of the steering committee to include the Attorney General, DSI, Ministry of Commerce, and relevant permanent secretaries. The government maintains that the suppression of online scams remains highly essential to safeguarding Thailand’s digital economy, protecting the public, and maintaining international confidence in the country’s internal security. (NNT)
