Chaiyachanok Sees No Evidence of Mark-Teng Phone Hacking via Pegasus, Proposes NSC Cybersecurity Meeting on 4 Nov, Advises Public Caution - Thairath English
Minister Chaiyachanok explained that although politicians Mark and Teng had their phones hacked, there is no evidence of Pegasus spyware use. He proposed raising the issue at the National Security Council meeting on 4 November and advised the public to be cautious by regularly changing passwords and avoiding clicking on ads.
At 11:30 a.m. on 3 November 2026, at the Monthathip Conference Hall in Udon Thani, Chaiyachanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, addressed reports that politician Abhisit Vejjajiva, party-list MP and Democrat Party leader, had received alerts of possible Pegasus spyware intrusion on his phone. He said he watched the news and noted Abhisit did not specify Pegasus but mentioned malware. Apple had announced hacking incidents affecting 99 countries globally, without confirming use of Pegasus or any specific software. He added that if Abhisit wishes to cooperate, the agency considers it important and would discuss the matter at the National Security Council meeting on 4 November, which should benefit the public if more information emerges.
When asked whether alerts received by party-list MP Natthapong Ruangpanyawut of the People’s Party, similar to Abhisit's, might be connected, Chaiyachanok said everyone should be cautious and use these cases as warnings. Malware can take many forms; people should be careful especially when connecting to public internet hotspots, Wi-Fi, or having devices repaired at untrustworthy shops, as well as avoiding clicking on pop-up ads. He urged the public to remain vigilant.
Asked about prevention measures, Chaiyachanok said the issue will be brought to the National Security Council meeting on 4 November as an important agenda. He preferred to hear from relevant agencies before commenting on specific measures. The ministry is continuously monitoring the situation, which is a new global issue, and is contacting Apple for further information.
Regarding recent cyberattacks in many countries and Thailand’s preparedness, Chaiyachanok said preparations are underway. He asked the public to change passwords frequently, be cautious connecting to public or insecure networks, and avoid clicking on advertisements during this time. The ministry is coordinating with experts, major companies, and countries experienced in cybersecurity.
Deputy Minister Nan Buntida Somchai said initial checks found that alerts were issued in many countries worldwide, not just Thailand. The ministry is gathering information and will bring the matter to a joint meeting with related agencies on 4 November to consider the alerts, including spyware and malware issues currently under discussion.
Asked about reports of politicians affected, Nan Buntida said the alerts have been seen in several countries, with Germany reporting many notifications. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is investigating and coordinating with relevant agencies, including cyber police.
Asked whether any politicians or affected individuals have directly contacted the ministry, Nan Buntida said none have so far; all information has come from media reports. However, related agencies have been meeting about cybersecurity alerts since 30 October.
Asked if the public is encouraged to report information to the ministry for investigation, Nan Buntida said it is not a demand but an invitation to share information for verification. The ministry needs to confirm if alerts are genuine from companies. If so, direct coordination with those companies is necessary to understand the incidents. The government requires such information to proceed with investigations.
