The Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry has stepped up efforts to combat illegal streaming and online gambling platforms during the World Cup, forging closer cooperation with rights holder Monomax to accelerate the removal of infringing content and illicit websites.
DES deputy minister Nan Boonthida Somchai met with Navamin Prasopnet, chief executive of Mono Next Plc, to discuss measures aimed at tackling websites and digital platforms involved in unauthorised broadcasts of World Cup matches, as well as online gambling operations that exploit the tournament's popularity.
The move reflects the government's broader campaign against cybercrime, intellectual property (IP) violations and illegal online betting, which authorities say tend to surge during major sporting events.
According to Ms Nan, the ministry's Illegal Website Monitoring Centre blocked 12,671 URLs linked to copyright infringement and online gambling between June 10-24.
Of the total, 4,496 URLs were blocked under court orders, while another 8,175 URLs were removed through cooperation with major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
She said discussions with Mono Next, the rights holder for the World Cup 2026 broadcasts and English Premier League content in Thailand, focused on enhancing information sharing and operational coordination to enable faster detection and takedown of illegal platforms.
Under the proposed framework, the company plans to work with the ministry's monitoring centre by providing intelligence and evidence related to copyright violations, allowing authorities to expedite enforcement actions once illegal activities are identified.
Officials said stronger public-private collaboration will help reduce revenue losses associated with piracy, protect IP rights, and improve the effectiveness of measures against digital platforms operating outside the law.
Ms Nan said the government continues to monitor online activities around the clock and remains committed to integrating efforts with private sector stakeholders to strengthen enforcement against illegal websites.
"Closer cooperation will accelerate the takedown process and help prevent offences that affect individuals, businesses and the digital economy," she said.
