CYBERCRIME IN THAILAND: THE ANALYSIS THROUGH THE CRIME TRIANGLE FRAMEWORK

Abstract

This article analyzes the circumstances of cybercrime in Thailand by applying the Crime Triangle framework. The objective is to understand the three core elements including, the suitable target, the motivated offender, and the absence of a capable guardian to propose proactive crime prevention strategies. The study indicates that 1) The suitable target is not the elderly or technologically illiterate, but rather the working-age population (between 31-40 years old), who are heavy technology users with low cyber security awareness. 2) The motivated offender is a transnational criminal organization operating systematically, with financial gain as the primary motive. and 3) The absence of the guardian is evident in a reactive law enforcement approach rather than proactive law enforcement approach, proven by an exceedingly low asset recovery rate. Consequently, addressing cybercrime necessitates a prevention strategy focused on disrupting the crime triangle. Three recommendations have been proposed, which are 1) Empowering potential victims by integrating cybercrime knowledge and skills into the educational system. 2) Increasing the risk for offenders by shifting from a reactive investigative model to proactive law enforcement approach. 3) Strengthening the law enforcement framework through seamless collaboration between public and private sectors to establish an efficient and effective mechanism for prevention and suppression. The results of this study are intended to equip the public with the knowledge necessary to protect themselves from cybercrime.