Educational Information Only
The content on this page is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique. For matters involving investigation, arrest, litigation, or formal proceedings, consult a qualified legal professional.
Penalties for Defamation in Thailand
Complete guide to Thailand's criminal defamation laws — online and offline defamation, penalties, and implications for foreigners.
Overview
Thailand treats defamation as a CRIMINAL offence, unlike most Western countries where it is primarily a civil matter. Truth is not always a complete defence — even truthful statements can be defamatory if they cause reputational harm. The Computer Crime Act extends criminal liability to online speech, making social media posts, negative reviews, and even private messages potential criminal offences.
Penalties Table
| Offence | Statute | Fine Range | Prison Range | Foreigner Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal defamation (Section 326) | Criminal Code, Section 326 | Up to THB 200,000 | Up to 1 year | Truth is NOT always a defence in Thailand |
| Defamation by publication/broadcast (Section 328) | Criminal Code, Section 328 | Up to THB 200,000 | Up to 2 years | Includes social media posts and online reviews |
| Online defamation (Computer Crime Act) | Computer Crime Act B.E. 2560 (2017), Section 14 | Up to THB 100,000 | Up to 5 years | Posting negative reviews on social media can trigger this |
| Defamation of public official | Criminal Code, Section 136 | Up to THB 200,000 | Up to 2 years | Higher scrutiny for comments about officials |
Important Notes
Defamation is a criminal offence in Thailand — not just a civil matter. You can go to jail.
Truth is NOT always a defence. Even truthful statements can be criminal if they damage reputation.
Negative business reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, or social media have led to criminal charges.
The Computer Crime Act makes online defamation punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment.
Foreigners have been arrested and deported for social media posts about businesses or individuals.
Corporate entities can also bring criminal defamation charges against individuals.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Penalties shown are statutory provisions and actual sentences may vary based on case circumstances and judicial discretion. Always consult a qualified Thai lawyer for specific legal advice.
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