Cybersecurity Laws in Thailand: A Guide for SMEs

Do you own an SME in Thailand and want to stay safe online? Not certain if you’re legally covered or even legally compliant when it comes to cybersecurity? You’re not alone—and that’s precisely why we’re here to assist. At PDLegal, we walk SMEs through the shifting tides of cybersecurity law in Thailand, so you’re not just covered but legally compliant with regional legal requirements. 

Why Cybersecurity Is a Legal Concern for SMEs 

Cybersecurity isn’t just a technical issue—it’s a legal requirement. For SMEs in Thailand, this means any failure to secure systems or report breaches may lead to legal penalties. As digital transactions increase, small and medium-sized businesses have become frequent targets of cyberattacks due to their limited IT infrastructure and sometimes outdated security protocols. 

Understanding cybersecurity laws in Thailand is essential to: 

• Avoid regulatory penalties 

• Protect customer data 

• Respond appropriately to cyber incidents 

• Ensure business continuity 

Overview of Cybersecurity Laws in Thailand 

Thailand’s Cybersecurity Act B.E. 2562 (2019) governs the protection of information systems against cyber threats. It applies to both public and private entities, including SMEs that rely on digital tools for daily operations. Compliance is not optional—even for smaller businesses. 

Key elements of the Cybersecurity Act include: 

• Mandatory incident reporting for critical threats 

• Inspection powers granted to state agencies 

• Requirements for security risk assessments 

• Legal consequences for non-compliance 

The Act classifies certain sectors as part of Critical Information Infrastructure (CII), where stricter obligations apply. While many SMEs may not fall into this category, the general obligations for cybersecurity readiness still hold. 

Related Laws That Affect SMEs 

In addition to the Cybersecurity Act, SMEs must also comply with other Thai laws related to digital security: 

• Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA): Governs how personal data should be collected, stored, and used. 

• Computer Crime Act: Covers offenses such as hacking, data breaches, and illegal access to systems. 

Together, these laws create a legal framework that requires SMEs to take cybersecurity seriously, not just from an IT standpoint but from a legal one. 

Legal Obligations SMEs Must Fulfill 

Under Thailand’s cybersecurity laws, SMEs are expected to meet certain minimum standards to stay compliant. These responsibilities vary depending on the type of data and systems used but commonly include: 

• Implementing security measures appropriate to the risks 

• Reporting cybersecurity incidents promptly to authorities 

• Cooperating with government inspections if requested 

• Training staff on basic cybersecurity protocols 

Failure to fulfill these legal duties may result in administrative penalties or civil liability. 

Common Gaps in SME Cybersecurity Compliance 

Many SMEs in Thailand face challenges in meeting cybersecurity regulations, often due to limited resources or awareness. Some frequent legal gaps include: 

• Incomplete understanding of the Cybersecurity Act and PDPA 

• No designated person responsible for cybersecurity oversight 

• Lack of a formal incident response plan 

• Inadequate documentation of internal security policies 

These issues can create not only security risks but also legal exposure under current laws. 

Steps to Align with Cybersecurity Laws 

To meet the requirements of cybersecurity laws in Thailand, SMEs should take a structured approach to compliance. Key actions include: 

• Conducting a risk assessment of IT systems 

• Establishing clear data protection and breach response policies 

• Training employees in cybersecurity awareness 

• Documenting all cybersecurity-related procedures 

• Reviewing system access controls and password policies regularly 

These steps help SMEs build resilience while meeting both technical and legal expectations. 

Incident Reporting and Government Involvement 

Under Thai law, SMEs must report significant cybersecurity incidents to the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) when applicable. In some cases, government agencies have the authority to inspect systems or request cooperation during investigations. 

SMEs are expected to: 

• Notify authorities without delay for major incidents 

• Provide relevant system access or logs if required 

• Follow up with a detailed incident report 

Non-compliance can lead to administrative actions or public liability, depending on the nature of the violation. 

How PDLegal Helps SMEs Move Forward Safely 

We know that SMEs often have limited resources. That’s why we provide practical and affordable legal support, designed to fit your needs and scale with your business. Whether you’re just starting out or expanding digitally, PDLegal ensures you’re legally prepared. 

Our legal support helps your SME: 

• Understand the full scope of cybersecurity obligations 

• Respond quickly and legally to cyber threats 

• Build a sustainable, legally compliant digital presence 

Conclusion 

Understanding cybersecurity laws in Thailand is essential for every SME operating in today’s digital environment. With increasing threats and stricter regulations, SMEs must take a proactive approach to cybersecurity—not just from a technical perspective but a legal one. Being aware of your legal responsibilities, preparing for incident reporting, and aligning your processes with the Cybersecurity Act and related laws can make the difference between resilience and risk. 

At PDLegal, we focus on helping businesses like yours navigate the complexities of cybersecurity laws in Thailand. We understand the challenges SMEs face and offer practical legal guidance to keep your operations compliant and secure. Reach out to us today to make your cybersecurity legally sound and future-ready! 

 

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