Thai gov't collaborates with Google to combat cyber threats

The Thai government has intensified efforts to combat severe cyber threats, particularly malicious applications that siphon funds from users' accounts.

Sasikarn Wattanachun, deputy Government spokesperson, reaffirmed the administration's commitment to addressing these threats. She emphasized the collaboration between the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society and Google, aimed at enhancing cybersecurity for Thai citizens.

This partnership leverages Google Play Protect, a feature designed to detect and block potentially harmful applications before installation. These include apps that can control devices or steal funds.

Since its introduction in Thailand in April, Google Play Protect has successfully blocked over 4.8 million installation attempts of risky applications on more than 1 million Android devices. It has intercepted over 41,000 malicious apps, including fake messaging apps, games, and counterfeit e-commerce platforms.

The updated Google Play Protect feature is tailored to safeguard Android users against scams by preventing the installation of risky apps downloaded from unknown sources. These sources, such as web browsers, messaging apps, or file managers, are commonly exploited in financial fraud schemes.

Sasikarn highlighted the government’s policy to protect citizens from online threats, which is bolstered by Google's expertise and cross-sector cooperation to raise awareness about technological safety.

She noted that this collaboration is expected to build strong defenses against cybercrime, leading Thai people toward a secure and sustainable digital society. This initiative also supports Thailand’s future economic development with confidence.