Technology
Concerns Raised Over Data Processing Requirements for TH-AI Passport
A Thai political figure has questioned the data handling protocols of the new TH-AI Passport system, citing potential conflicts with established terms of reference.
On August 19, 2026, Matichon Online reported that a political figure named Kadee has raised significant concerns regarding the operational requirements of the 'TH-AI Passport' system. According to the report, the current conditions of the project mandate that user data be transmitted abroad for processing.
Kadee alleges that this requirement explicitly contradicts the project's original Terms of Reference (TOR). Consequently, there are calls for the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) to publicly disclose the full details of the contract to clarify how sensitive personal information is being managed and stored.
For travelers and residents, this development highlights ongoing discussions regarding data privacy and the security of digital identity systems in Thailand. As the TH-AI Passport is intended to streamline immigration and identification processes, the handling of biometric and personal data is a critical point of public interest.
At this stage, it remains to be confirmed whether the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society will release the requested contract details or provide a formal response to these allegations. Furthermore, the extent to which these data processing conditions might impact the implementation timeline or the security protocols of the passport system has not yet been clarified by government officials. Users are advised to monitor official government announcements for updates regarding the security of their digital credentials.