Bangkok: The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has announced the implementation of liveness detection technology as a measure to combat SIM card registration fraud across Thailand, effective from August 18, 2025. Pol. Gen. Nattathorn Phuesunthon, an NBTC commissioner, highlighted this initiative as a step towards safeguarding personal data and enhancing security in mobile phone services by ensuring real-time identity verification during SIM card registration.
According to Thai News Agency, this new technology aims to prevent impersonation and reduce risks associated with fraud and personal data theft. The measure will apply to both new users, whether prepaid or postpaid, and existing users who opt to change SIM cards while retaining their numbers. Liveness detection technology works by confirming that the individual verifying their identity is indeed a real person, not an image, video, or mask. The system prompts users to perform actions like blinking or standing still, akin to verification processes used in banking apps, contrasting with previous methods that relied on simple photographic registration.
Pol. Gen. Nattathorn elaborated that users can conduct their registration and identity verification through various channels, including mobile operators' applications, service centers, dealerships, and retail outlets nationwide. Service providers are mandated to uphold stringent security standards as per the NBTC, the NBTC Office, and the Personal Data Protection Act B.E. 2562. The registration requires original, unexpired documents, categorized as follows: Thai nationals must present their original ID cards, non-Thai nationals need original passports, and legal entities must provide a certificate of legal entity registration alongside identification documents from authorized representatives.
Emphasizing the NBTC's commitment to consumer rights and the enhancement of trust in telecommunications, Pol. Gen. Nattathorn stated, "This measure will help reduce the risk of cyber threats and crimes that use phone numbers. We therefore request cooperation from all parties in following these steps to create a safe and trustworthy digital society."