Thai Companies Report More Than 21,000 Spyware Attacks in Early 2025

Thailand has recorded a sharp rise in spyware incidents targeting corporate networks. New data indicates more than 21,000 attacks against Thai organizations in the first half of 2025, highlighting an urgent cybersecurity threat for businesses operating in the country.

This increase reflects broader regional trends across Southeast Asia, where commercial spyware tools and zero-click exploits are driving more advanced and sophisticated cyberattack attempts.

What is Spyware?

Spyware is a type of software used by attackers to access information inside a computer or mobile device without the user’s knowledge. It is designed to stay hidden so it can quietly observe and collect sensitive data. In recent years, more advanced commercial spyware tools have made these intrusions easier to carry out and harder for companies to detect.

Rising number of Targeted Attacks

Kaspersky reported 21,014 spyware attacks in Thailand between January and June 2025. This places Thailand among the most affected ASEAN jurisdictions, indicating a clear escalation compared to previous years.

Across Southeast Asia, 427,265 spyware incidents were detected during the same period. This represents a 70.73 percent rise from the 250,260 cases recorded in the first half of 2024. Vietnam experienced the highest number of incidents, followed by Malaysia and Indonesia. Thailand’s count was slightly higher than Singapore’s 20,157 cases, with the Philippines recording the lowest cases.

How Does Spyware Operate?

Spyware differs from common malware because it is designed to remain undetected. It gathers sensitive business information by recording keystrokes, recording screenshots, and monitoring user activity before transmitting it to external operators.

Information commonly targeted includes:

• Corporate documents and internal files
• Payment data
• Credit card numbers and PIN codes
• Login credentials and authentication details

These intrusions may occur without any visible system compromise, allowing attackers to monitor activity for extended periods of time.

Rise of Commercial-Grade Monitoring Tools

Kaspersky’s assessment notes that commercial-grade spyware tools were originally developed for government and law enforcement use, but have become a primary driver of the rising threat. These technologies can intercept messages, track devices, and access call data.

A significant concern is the use of zero-click vulnerabilities. In these cases, the victim does not need to click a link or open a file. Tools such as Pegasus have shown that platforms like iMessage and WhatsApp can be compromised through these methods.

Impact on Thai Business

Kaspersky representative Simon Deng, general manager for Southeast Asia and Asian emerging markets, states that the current situation constitutes a regional cybersecurity emergency. Attacks now routinely target companies that had no warning signs or any prior indications of compromise.

Businesses are encouraged to treat spyware risks as a strategic concern. 

This can be done by:

• Strengthening internal security policies 
• Auditing digital systems to make sure they are secure
• Implementing incident-response plans.

Common Questions About Spyware Risks in Thailand

Are Thai companies being specifically targeted?

The data indicates a region-wide trend, but Thailand recorded more than 21,000 incidents in early 2025, showing that local organizations are significantly affected.

What type of businesses are at risk?

Any company that stores sensitive data is vulnerable. This includes financial institutions, manufacturing companies, service providers, and organizations handling customer information.

How can businesses protect themselves?

Basic measures include access-control policies, regular system updates, internal cybersecurity training, and professional risk assessments. For high-risk organizations, more advanced monitoring tools and legal compliance reviews are recommended.

Legal Considerations for Companies in Thailand

Spyware incidents often involve unauthorized access to computer systems, data theft, and violations of privacy regulations. The increase in these incidents across Thailand suggests that businesses should strengthen internal safeguards and legal compliance measures. 

Companies may need to assess:

• Compliance with the Personal Data Protection Act(PDPA)
• Reporting obligations in the event of a breach
• Security contracts with partners and clients
• Liability exposure if compromised data involves third parties

Are you concerned about your cybersecurity exposure in Thailand or unsure whether your company’s systems, policies, or data handling practices meet Thai legal requirements? Have you recently experienced a suspicious breach, unauthorized access, or signs of potential spyware on your devices or corporate network?

Contact Siam Legal for a consultation with our Cyber Crime and Technology Law Team. With more than 20 years of experience assisting foreign businesses and individuals in Thailand, our lawyers can help assess your risks, review PDPA compliance, update internal policies, and guide you through the legal steps required after a cybersecurity incident. If you believe you may be a victim of spyware or digital intrusion, we can provide confidential advice and a clear plan of action.

Category: Cybercrime Law