New Emergency Decree Targets Banks, Telecoms, and Tech Platforms
As of April 13, 2025, Thailand has taken a decisive step to combat digital fraud by introducing a new emergency decree. This law holds financial institutions, telecom operators, and social media platforms directly accountable for scam prevention. According to Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, the initiative aims to protect the public from the surge in tech-enabled scams, especially those carried out via mobile phones and online platforms.
Immediate Action Required from Key Sectors
Under the new regulation, banks and related businesses must immediately report and freeze any accounts or transactions flagged for suspicious activity. Furthermore, telecom providers are now obligated to filter out scam-related SMS messages, while the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) must take decisive steps to shut down scam-linked services entirely.
Significant Penalties to Enforce Compliance
To ensure enforcement, the decree comes with strict penalties. Companies that fail to comply may face fines of up to THB500,000 ($15,000). In addition, individuals responsible for negligence or non-compliance could face up to one year in prison, a THB100,000 ($3,000) fine, or both. Moreover, the law targets the misuse of unregistered mobile numbers and fraudulent use of data from deceased individuals, both common tactics in scam operations.
Crypto Platforms Also Face Stricter Oversight
Meanwhile, Thailand is also clamping down on digital asset exchanges. Starting from the same date, foreign platforms must secure a local license to continue operations in the country. This move not only strengthens regulatory control but also aligns with the broader anti-scam framework introduced by the decree.
Reflecting Global Cybersecurity Trends
Overall, Thailand’s latest measures mirror growing global efforts to fight cybercrime. For instance, countries like Singapore have already implemented shared responsibility frameworks, requiring private sectors to actively participate in scam prevention. As a result, Thai authorities are making it clear that there will be zero tolerance for inaction. Industries must either step up to protect consumers or face the consequences.
