Bangkok: "DE" confirms that there is no Thai internet signal sent to neighboring countries. Prasert confirms that there is no internet signal from Thailand to neighboring countries. Measures are being taken to inspect every week for 3 consecutive months. Reveals that China praises Thailand for cracking down on call center gangs.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Prasert Jantarawongthong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DE), addressed the effort to cut off internet signals sent to neighboring countries, particularly in areas suspected to harbor call center gangs. A collaborative meeting took place involving the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), police, all mobile networks, and other relevant agencies to tackle the issue. The plan is divided into three parts: lowering poles to ensure wireless signals do not extend beyond Thailand's borders, cutting off signal wires to neighboring countries, and immediately severing any connections to suspicious buildings. Mr. Prasert reassured that previously affected areas now report no internet signals from Thailand, and all network operators are committed to the initiative.
Mr. Prasert elaborated, 'We have cut the cables that were secretly dragged. Last week, the NBTC went to the area together with internet network operators and DE to cut several points. We will continue to inspect them every week for 3 months.'
Addressing concerns about the potential use of low-orbit satellites or Starlink for illegal activities, Mr. Prasert stated that such trading is considered illegal in Thailand as it lacks NBTC authorization. He emphasized the need for cooperation among ASEAN countries, with Thailand currently serving as chair, to combat call center crime gangs. 'In the past, they bought from neighboring countries and brought them into Thailand. However, we have seized no less than 200 dishes many times. We now know that they have set up systems abroad and receive signals directly. We want to control the Starlink signal, so we will ask for cooperation from neighboring countries because it is considered a signal that is used in crime,' he added.
Mr. Prasert also shared insights from his recent visit to China, where he discussed future operations to prevent and suppress call center gangs with the President and Prime Minister of China. He noted that China commended Thailand's efforts in tackling this regional issue, highlighting the necessity for international collaboration.