PDPC clarifies CCTV usage under PDPA laws

The Personal Data Protection Committee (PDPC) has clarified that installing CCTV cameras at private residences does not automatically violate the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), despite online rumors suggesting homeowners could face million-baht fines for cameras facing public roads.

Surapong Plengkham, Secretary-General of the PDPC, explained that under Section 4 (1) of the PDPA, the law does not apply to the collection, use, or disclosure of personal data for personal or household activities. Therefore, using cameras to protect life and property or to gather evidence for accidents and legal cases falls under this exemption.

However, the PDPC cautioned that being exempt from the PDPA does not grant unlimited rights to use the footage. Residents should remain cautious, particularly when cameras record individuals on public streets or outside the home boundaries.