In this photo released by the Royal Thai Army, people sit near a border checkpoint between Thailand and Cambodia in Sa Kaeo Province, Thailand, Tuesday, June 24, 2025. (Royal Thai Army via AP)

 

Thailand's telecom regulator has ordered a halt to all internet connections from Thai operators to Cambodia, implementing stringent measures every 15 days on SIM card sales.

 

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) aims to combat call centre scams and cybercrime, focusing on the Khlong Luek border area near Poipet.

 

In the coming fortnight, all communications in border areas will be cut, with restrictions extended further afield. Despite these crackdowns, the NBTC reassures that measures are in place to ensure residents near the border can still use their mobiles, deploying SIM vehicles to aid connectivity.

 

This decisive action follows Cambodia's prior move to cut internet links from Thailand. Nevertheless, Thai providers continued service, with 14 companies extending broadband to Cambodia.

 

Recent regulatory discussions have now mandated a complete signal shutdown, requiring operators to justify service continuation and assess scam risks.

 

Thai operators with Cambodian branches will operate separate transmission systems unaffected by the recent restrictions. Each Cambodian SIM card requires user identification, and operators must report SIM sales biweekly to the NBTC.

 

Police Inspector-General Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot reports a reduction in cybercrime following these measures. Thailand plans to prosecute owners of two Poipet buildings, suspected scam hubs, while recounting limited cooperation from Cambodian authorities.

 

The focus remains on Huione Group, a Cambodian financial firm linked to online gambling and scams. The U.S. has already banned Huione from its financial system, flagging it for money laundering concerns.

 

Investigations continue amid reports of potential ties to a relative of former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.

 

As Thailand tightens its cybercrime crackdown, collaboration with Cambodia hinges on ongoing border negotiations. Both nations face pressure to curb fraudulent activities impacting regional stability.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-27

 

 

3 hours ago, webfact said:

Thailand's telecom regulator has ordered a halt to all internet connections from Thai operators to Cambodia, implementing stringent measures every 15 days on SIM card sales.

 

Good!, try China as the next culprit.