BANGKOK: Thailand has warned users of Facebook that they could face prosecution under harsh lese-majeste laws if they press ''share'' or ''like'' on images or articles considered unflattering to the Thai monarchy.

The prosecution of a Thai-born US citizen who has pleaded guilty to translating a banned biography of King Bhumibol Adulyadej has signalled that authorities are also targeting lese-majeste offences committed overseas.

Penalties .... Thai people face charges if they insult the king, queen, heir or regent. Credit:AFP

Thailand's Information and Communications Technology Minister, Anudith Nakornthap, says that even though Facebook clicks of ''like'' or ''share'' are only done to show support for messages, they could violate laws that carry sentences of three to 15 years jail for each charge.

Authorities in Thailand have asked Facebook to delete more than 10,000 pages of content as computer technicians in Bangkok scour the internet for royal insults. ''We have informed Facebook and sought their assistance in deleting content which is offensive to our monarchy,'' Mr Anudith said.