Bangkok: Cyber police in Thailand are preparing to propose the closure of Polymarket.com, a website that facilitates betting on significant global events using cryptocurrency. Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong Phiwpaen, Commander of the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), emphasized the site's non-compliance with Thailand's laws, highlighting its violation of the Computer Crime Act.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong revealed that the TCSD has been closely monitoring illegal online gambling platforms. The rise of Web 3.0 technology and the use of cryptocurrency have complicated the tracking and inspection of these sites. Polymarket.com, which offers prediction services in areas such as politics, sports, entertainment, and economics, is deemed illegal in Thailand due to its cryptocurrency transactions.
The investigation showed that Polymarket.com has faced restrictions in several countries, including Taiwan, France, and Singapore, to safeguard public and economic stability. The TCSD believes that shutting down the website is crucial to protect the public from illegal online gambling and prevent cryptocurrency from being used in unlawful activities with potential economic and social repercussions.
To enhance efficiency in combating illegal websites, a special task force has been established for international surveillance and cooperation. This task force works with various domestic and international agencies, reflecting a global effort to control and prevent illegal activities. The public is advised to steer clear of unauthorized websites and report any suspicious activities through the AOC hotline or online channels.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong also discussed efforts to combat call center gangs, emphasizing the screening of travelers entering Thailand. Collaboration between immigration police and other agencies aims to identify individuals potentially involved in call center operations. Measures are in place to prevent Thais from joining overseas call center scams, with enhanced cooperation across police divisions and military and local government officials.
Regarding mobile phone applications, the Cyber Police have identified two apps, FinEasy and Happiness Loan, pre-installed on devices running the ColorOS operating system, which is based on Android. These apps may violate the Computer Crime Act, particularly Section 13, which addresses the unauthorized distribution of tools for committing offenses. While no formal complaints have been received, the Cyber Police are investigating whether these pre-installed applications constitute legal violations.