In a year marked by significant advancements in technology and rising digital threats, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) ramped up its efforts, removing a staggering 63,652 pieces of fraudulent content from social media platforms in 2024, which is a tenfold increase from the 6,297 removed in 2023.
Communications Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching shared these findings during the Madani Adopted Village Programme in Kulai, underscoring the growing sophistication of online scams.
“What I want to highlight here is that 63,652 is a substantial number, and it is based on complaints we received. However, I believe there is much more out there,” she cautioned.
AI-Powered Fraud: The New Frontier
Among the rising threats, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changer for scammers.
Deepfake technology has been weaponised to impersonate high-profile figures, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and former Bank Negara governor Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar Aziz among the victims.
“With AI technology now, it is incredibly easy to create deepfake videos,” Teo explained.
These videos often exploit the credibility of public figures, misleading the public into scams such as fake investment schemes.
One particularly troubling example involves a fake video titled ‘Zeti’s Lifetime Investment Secrets’, where a deepfake of Zeti Akhtar Aziz shares false financial advice to lure viewers into joining WhatsApp groups for fraudulent investment schemes.
“In reality, this is just a trick to get people to join their [scammers’] groups, eventually falling prey to investment fraud,” Teo said.
Scams on the Rise: A National Concern
Statistics from the Royal Malaysia Police show that investment scams remain the most prevalent type of fraud.
Teo stressed on the need for public education, urging Malaysians to verify information before sharing it.
“It is crucial to educate the public to be more vigilant and considerate, always verify information, and refrain from sharing if they are unsure,” she said.
She also called on social media platforms like TikTok and Meta to take stronger action.
“It is not that AI-generated content cannot be used, but we hope they can think of ways to at least include a note in the posts indicating that the content is AI-generated. They have to bear responsibility to ensure the content created is genuine,” she added.
A Call to Action: Fighting Fraud Together
To combat the surge in harmful content, the government has launched awareness campaigns and partnered with tech companies to enhance monitoring efforts.
However, Teo’s message to the public remains clear: vigilance is key.
“Technology is a double-edged sword,” Teo concluded.
“While it has brought tremendous benefits, it also requires us to be more discerning and proactive in safeguarding our digital spaces.”
As scammers become more creative, Malaysians must stay informed and report suspicious content to ensure a safer online environment for all.
