In today’s digital-driven business environment, communication and operations rely heavily on online platforms. A problem that many companies increasingly face is that after resigning, employees may not only submit their resignation and hand over tasks as required, but in some cases, they go further deleting work-related LINE groups, removing the company’s LINE Official account, or even erasing crucial computer data. Such actions can cause serious harm to the organization.
The key question for many employers is: “What can the company do if this happens?”
This article explains the employer’s legal rights, possible courses of action, and why consulting a lawyer is essential.
Employee Duties and Responsibilities Toward the Company
Employees are not only responsible for performing assigned tasks but also for safeguarding the employer’s interests, including protecting information, assets, and tools used for work such as computers, LINE Official accounts, and client-related documents.
Upon resignation, employees still have the duty to properly hand over work and avoid causing damage to the company. Failure to do so gives employers the right to pursue legal remedies.
How Does Deleting LINE Groups, LINE Official, or Company Data Cause Damage?
With businesses relying on digital platforms for communication, customer contact, and data storage, these tools are valuable assets comparable to physical property. Thus, when a disgruntled employee resigns and deletes a LINE group, LINE Official, or company computer data, it directly causes operational, reputational, and financial losses.
Examples of potential damage include:
1.Deleting LINE work groups – Often used for internal communication, deletion can erase important records and disrupt workflow tracking.
2.Deleting LINE Official – For many businesses, LINE Official is a primary customer communication channel. Deletion or access denial can result in customer loss, damaged credibility, and revenue decline.
3.Deleting computer data – Removing client files or key documents is equivalent to destroying the company’s digital assets, directly impacting business operations.
What Legal Actions Can Employers Take?
1. Civil Proceedings
Employers can sue employees for damages if the deletion of data or LINE Official leads to financial loss, such as losing clients, revenue, or incurring recovery costs.
2.Criminal Proceedings
Under Thailand’s Computer Crime Act B.E. 2550 (2007), amended B.E. 2560 (2017), unauthorized deletion or destruction of computer data can constitute a criminal offense.
oSection 9: Destroying or altering computer data belonging to others is punishable by fine and imprisonment.
oSection 10: Damaging computer systems also carries penalties.
Employers can also file criminal charges if a LINE Official account considered a business asset is deleted.
3. Labor Law Measures
If the misconduct occurs before the employee’s termination takes effect (e.g., during the notice period), employers may terminate employment without severance or claim compensation under the employment contract.
Risks of Inaction by Employers
Failure to respond may result in:
- Loss of customer base and business opportunities
- Loss of vital strategic data
- Damage to corporate reputation and credibility
Why Should Employers Consult a Lawyer?
While employers have legal rights, handling cases alone can be complex. Lawyers provide critical support by:
1.Assessing the case – Determining whether civil, criminal, or labor remedies apply.
2.Gathering evidence – Ensuring proper collection of chat records, screenshots, or computer logs admissible in court.
3.Filing lawsuits systematically – Lawyers streamline proceedings and reduce employer burden.4.Minimizing risks – Proper legal interpretation prevents costly mistakes.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Recurrence
- Establish clear policies on the use of LINE Official and company data.
- Limit access rights to essential personnel.
- Regularly back up important data.
- Include employment contract clauses requiring proper handover and prohibiting data destruction.
Protect Your Business with Confidence – Consult Wongsakorn Law Office
When employees resign and delete LINE groups, LINE Official, or company data, the act may constitute civil and criminal wrongdoing. Employers have the right to claim damages and pursue legal proceedings.
👉 If you are an employer facing such an issue, don’t let your company suffer unnecessary loss. Consulting an expert lawyer is the safest and most effective solution. Contact Wongsakorn Law Office for legal advice and protection today.