Phuket Airport security questioned after sign hacked
A digital sign inside Phuket International Airport was hacked with a political message condemning Israel’s genocide in Palestine just days before Thailand’s busiest travel period.
The incident occurred yesterday, April 9 and was reported to the Airports of Thailand (AoT) Phuket, but officials have yet to provide any response.
The compromised sign, located near the baggage scan area, flashed the message, “Hacked by Nexusqassamy,” followed by “baby killer.” The full message read:
“Gaza is being subjected to genocide by Israel, babies are dying, no one is doing anything, when will the world wake up, babies are dying.”
The message also included a contact: “Telegram: nexusqassamy.”
A traveller who photographed the sign told The Phuket News, “I don’t know if it’s been seen before, but it was a first for me, and no one seemed to notice it.”
Despite the clear breach of digital security, AoT Phuket has only said it is “looking into it,” offering no confirmation of an investigation or timeline for resolving the issue.
Ironically, the incident came on the same day AoT Phuket launched a flashy campaign promoting the airport’s safety, security, and Songkran holiday readiness.
A press conference was held with fanfare, featuring parades of security officers and Segway patrols to reassure the public.
AoT Phuket General Manager Monchai Tanode announced that from April 10 to 19, Phuket Airport expects 523,306 passengers, averaging 52,331 travellers per day. Over 3,200 flights are forecasted during the 10 days.
To manage the influx, the airport is implementing enhanced biometric ID systems, real-time passenger tracking, and increased staffing.
Free parking will also be offered by the Royal Thai Army from April 11 to 16, and Songkran festivities will include water-pouring rituals, souvenirs, and cultural performances, reported The Phuket News.
Travellers are being advised to arrive two to three hours early. Water guns are banned in carry-on luggage per Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) rules.
Despite the upbeat holiday messaging, the hacked sign serves as a chilling reminder of potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities — even as airport officials parade their commitment to safety.
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