Bangkok: The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced the closure of five websites-Bybit, 1000X, CoinEx, OKX, and XT.COM-for trading digital assets without authorization. This move is part of a broader effort to protect investors and prevent these platforms from being used for money laundering activities by criminals. According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, under the authority granted by the Royal Decree on Measures for the Prevention and Suppression of Technology Crime (No. 2) B.E. 2568, has the power to block unauthorized digital asset trading platforms. This legislation, effective from April 13, 2568, empowers the ministry to take decisive action against illegal digital asset operations. The SEC's investigation revealed that the aforementioned websites were operating without the necessary permissions under the Digital Asset Business Act B.E. 2561. Consequently, the SEC has filed charges with the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) to initiate legal proceedings against these platforms. In alignment with the Royal Decree's objectives, the SEC has communicated the details of these platforms to the Ministry of Digital Affairs to block their access. This measure is set to be implemented on June 28, 2568, to prevent public access to these unauthorized digital trading platforms. Investors using these platforms are advised by the SEC to take appropriate actions regarding their assets before the closure date. The SEC also cautions the public against engaging with unlicensed digital asset businesses, highlighting the lack of legal protection and the potential risk of being involved in money laundering schemes. The public is encouraged to verify the licensing status of digital asset operators through the SEC's official channels, including their website and the SEC Check First application. Additionally, any suspicious activities can be reported to the 'Complaint and Whistleblowing Center' via telephone or through the SEC's official social media and online platf orms for further investigation.