Thailand is intensifying its fight against illegal online gambling as the authorities are reporting more than 4 million young people being involved in online betting for the past 6 months.
National Police Chief Police General Kittirat Phanphet has ordered law enforcement to strengthen investigations and take necessary actions.
According to Thai police, the authorities have blocked over 717,000 links from October 2025 to May 2026 across Facebook, Line, and Tiktok. The operation remains ongoing as they are still targeting and finding more illegal sites.
The Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) is the leading force in identifying gambling operators, investigating money transactions and shutting down websites that are unlawful. Authorities plan to shut down 309 gambling websites during May and June.
Police reports that several arrests have been made and additional warrants will be made in the coming weeks. More enforcement will be implemented as the 2026 World Cup is about to start, and more focus will be put on football-related betting sites.
The police are using artificial intelligence tools to identify illegal gambling activities and track operators.
Authorities inform that gambling websites have adapted payment methods in response to previous enforcement measures. Now they are using corporate accounts, PayPal, or other cryptocurrencies.
Despite the ongoing enforcement, the police note that the demand for online gambling is still high. At least 4 million people between the ages of 15 and 25 are participating in online gambling during the first months of 2026.
Officials also warn the gambling operators about using influencers and livestreams to promote their services. The promotions target financially vulnerable people and present gambling as a quick money-making method.
The Royal Thai Police said enforcement will continue against gambling operators and those who promote it online.
