BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society will inspect nearly 30,000 government information systems after more than 50 billion user records leaked worldwide, over 200 million of them linked to Thailand.
The ministry plans to introduce mandatory multi-factor authentication for state agencies. DES Minister Chaichanok Chidchob revealed the findings from a review by the National Cyber Security Agency.
Over 200 million records with Thai links
Chaichanok said the agency’s audit found more than 50 billion user records in leaked data sets globally. Over 200 million of those are connected to Thailand.
The numbers include multiple accounts and data breaches from different time periods. Nearly 30,000 state systems and more than 35,000 private systems are possible sources.
State systems to be checked within 15 days
The ministry will examine government systems within about 15 days. Officials will determine which systems are still active and which should be shut down.
The check will also reveal potential security gaps. Authorities are working with companies and civil society groups to identify the sources of the data leaks.
Ministry plans mandatory MFA logins
The DES wants to propose that the cabinet require state agencies to move beyond usernames and passwords. Plans include the use of multi-factor authentication.
This extra security layer will make access harder even if login credentials have already been compromised. The measure will apply to government agencies.
Investigations into personal data trading continue
For long-term data protection, authorities will improve cyber security infrastructure and identity verification standards. Investigations into the illegal trade and use of personal data are ongoing.
Together with the private sector and civil society, government agencies will close weaknesses and reduce the risk of further data leaks.