As a precautionary measure for national security, the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) of the Thai police announced plans to monitor its citizens’ conversations on popular messaging app LINE. The police had also approached other social networks and apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter, but were quickly rebuffed by the American-based companies. If Japan-based Line Corporation agrees to cooperate, the Thai police force will then be able to access the 15-million strong LINE user base in the country as well as their conversations.
The Thai police’s plans to monitor its citizens’ conversations came after four suspects were held for posting coup rumours on Facebook, and is regarded purely as a precaution against similar cases in the future. Naturally, this is seen as a severe violation of privacy as well as online security to many. The Thai PM, Yingluck Shinawatra was “not clearly informed of the matter”, and urged the Thai police to approach cases on a case-by-case basis.
Interestingly, Line Corporation issued a statement several hours ago explaining that the company “has not received any official request from the Thai police”.
(Source: Tech In Asia via @gabeygoh (Twitter))
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