School Shooting Suspect Accessed Normal Websites, Not Dark Web
Police investigation into the Thepsirin School shooting in Nonthaburi revealed the suspect accessed regular websites and YouTube documentaries, not dark web content as initially reported. Authorities are now working with tech platforms and
Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyachon Chidchob addressed the shooting incident at Thepsirin School in Nonthaburi on August 12, clarifying that police investigation revealed the student accessed regular websites rather than the dark web, contrary to initial media reports. The suspect had viewed YouTube documentaries and standard informational content, not the violent material many had assumed.
Chidchob stated that the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission had already been discussing protective policy upgrades with major platforms including Apple and Meta before the incident occurred. He confirmed Apple has agreed to adjust parental protection settings, with other platforms currently in negotiations. While acknowledging that users can still access content through parent accounts, the ministry aims to implement first-level website access protection.
When asked if the attack was premeditated, Chidchob suggested the student had decided in advance, noting that when authorities discovered a gaming account linked to the suspect with a virtual gun shop, they contacted gaming associations not to ban the account but to develop collaborative oversight. The ministry is working with game companies to identify high-risk user accounts or those showing unusual interest in firearms, allowing data to be shared with government agencies for early prevention.