Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society Requests “Abhisit and Natthaphong” to Submit Data Regarding Phone Hacking for Official Investigation

Today (3 November 2026) at 11:30 AM at Monthathip Hall International Convention Center, Udon Thani Province, Ms. Nan Bunthida Somchai, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society, addressed the reported hacking of phones belonging to Democrat Party leader Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva and People’s Party leader Mr. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut. Both individuals received alerts from Apple and have suggested that the hacking might be linked to the upcoming no-confidence debate.

Ms. Nan stated that preliminary checks indicate these alerts were not limited to Thailand but were issued globally. She noted that information is currently being gathered, and the issue—along with other related concerns involving spyware and malware—will be brought up for consideration at a National Security Council (NSC) meeting on November 4, 2026. The Ministry is currently compiling a comprehensive overview of the situation; while specific individuals have reported being targeted, the alerts appear to be widespread across several countries, notably Germany. The Ministry is actively investigating the matter and coordinating with the NSC and the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau.

A reporter asked whether, in addition to the politicians, others had also been targeted by hacking. Regarding whether any businesspeople have also been hacked, Ms. Nan stated that no such reports have been received yet; all information seen so far has come from news reports, and no one has reached out directly to the agency, such as the National Security Council (NSC). In fact, a meeting was held on October 30 to discuss preparations for various cyber threats.

When asked whether she would call on Mr. Abhisit and Mr. Natthaphong to submit the matter to the ministry for investigation, Ms. Nan clarified that she would not use the word “call on” or “demand.” Instead, she would like them to present the information, as it is necessary to verify whether the alerts originated from Apple. If they did, the agency would need to coordinate with the company to understand the circumstances. As a government body responsible for overseeing various aspects of technology, the agency requires this information to conduct a proper assessment.