Online scams are a serious problem in Malaysia, with victims losing millions of ringgit each year. Scammers use a variety of methods to trick people out of their money, including phishing emails, fake investment opportunities, and online shopping scams. To tackle this serious issue, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has pledged to take stronger action against online scams and illegal activities.
FMT reports that the MCMC Chairman Salim Fateh Din expressed zero tolerance for the misuse of online platforms and telecommunication networks for fraud and cybercrime.
In April 2023, the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) recorded 11,858 scam complaints, resulting in losses of RM1.2 billion from 2021 to April 2023, as reported by the police’s commercial crime division.
Salim emphasised that certain applications and social media platforms have failed to regulate their platforms effectively, violating Malaysia’s laws and national interests. Therefore, stricter regulatory oversight and intervention by the MCMC are necessary to protect the public and users.
The MCMC plans to review its regulatory approach, including reconsidering exemptions for specific activities and imposing criminal penalties on entities that intentionally ignore criminal activities on their platforms.
Salim also noted that countries like Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia, along with their industry peers and regulators, have already enacted or are in the process of implementing laws to regulate and criminalise scammers on online platforms. These measures also hold platforms accountable for non-compliance with government directives.
He also stated that they are collaborating with the police, Bank Negara Malaysia, the National Anti-Financial Crime Centre, and they committed to combatting fraud and taking strict measures against offenders. This proactive approach is vital for ensuring the safety and security of individuals in the digital realm, while also upholding national sovereignty and demanding greater accountability.
