Deputy Government Spokesperson Airin Phanpharit said April 1 is traditionally marked by jokes and playful pranks, often intended to build relationships and relieve stress.

However, she cautioned that such acts can negatively affect others or trigger public panic, particularly when false information is shared on social media and spreads widely.

“Amid the ongoing Middle East conflict and its impact on energy supplies, the government urges the public to share only accurate and useful information,” she said in a statement on Wednesday.

She added that the government, through the Royal Thai Police, is urging the public to exercise caution, as creating or disseminating false information, even as a prank, may cause harm or public alarm and constitute a legal offence.

Airin also urged the public to verify information before sharing it to help maintain public confidence during a period of heightened uncertainty.

Thai local media reported that the Royal Thai Police have launched a 24-hour monitoring programme to identify and take action against individuals spreading “fake news” that causes social distress.

Police said those responsible may face legal action under the Computer Crimes Act as well as criminal defamation laws.