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In response to this issue, Mr. Prasert Jantarawongthong, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, led a meeting to boost awareness and address misinformation through the Anti-Fake News Centre (AFNC) project. He was joined by Dr. Ekapong Harimcharoen, Inspector General of the Ministry of DE, Mr. Wallop Ruchirakorn, Secretary to the Minister, and other key officials from the Ministry.
Fueled by the proliferation of fake news, online crime poses a significant threat to the public. Recognising this, the Ministry of Digital Economy is responsible for building public confidence in digital usage. An exhibition was organised to educate community leaders and residents of Narathiwat Province, a critical region in the southern border provinces, on identifying and combating fake news. This initiative aims to equip participants with the necessary skills to apply in their daily lives and to disseminate this knowledge within their families and communities.
A pivotal aspect of the Ministry’s strategy is using advanced AI technology to analyse, separate, and verify information. The AFNC effectively employs AI to distinguish between factual information and fake or distorted news. This verified information is then disseminated to the public through various channels, enhancing digital literacy and building resilience against misinformation.
Additionally, the AFNC encourages public participation by enabling individuals to report suspected fake news, seek additional information, or verify details through the Anti-Fake News Centre of Thailand website at www.antifakenewscentre.com. This participatory approach ensures that the public can actively contribute to the fight against fake news and online crime.
Mr Prasert highlighted the rapid spread of fake news and its detrimental effects on the economy and society, particularly in the southern region. Issues such as the spread of COVID-19, disaster news, health information, and government policies have been plagued by misinformation, which has impacted national security and caused significant harm to public property and personal information.
The Ministry of Digital Economy has found that fake news is a conduit for online crimes, leading to financial and informational damage. Therefore, creating awareness and promoting societal participation in resisting phoney news is paramount. This involves engaging youth, community leaders, and the elderly as pivotal forces in breaking the cycle of online crime, starting within families and communities and expanding to broader society.
Mr Prasert concluded by stressing the vital role of public awareness and participation in combating fake news and online crimes. The Ministry’s initiatives are designed to build a protective barrier within families and communities, fostering a well-informed society that is digitally literate and resilient against the threats posed by misinformation and cybercrime.
“Creating a protective barrier within families and communities before expanding to society more broadly is crucial. By raising awareness and fostering participation, we can collectively resist, prevent, and cut off the cycle of online crimes, ensuring a safer digital environment for all,” Mr Prasert said.
