Malaysia's Deputy Communications Minister Warns of Scammers Impersonating Ministry Officials

Teo Nie Ching, Malaysia's Deputy Communications Minister, has issued a warning to the public about scammers impersonating ministry officials and using their names and phone numbers to deceive victims. The syndicate is using the positions, names, and telephone numbers of officials listed on the ministry's website to carry out their fraudulent activities.

As of March 2024, the ministry has removed a total of 35,500 social media posts involving scams, fake investments, and gambling. Among these, 6,987 posts were related to investments and impersonation, while 28,513 involved gambling activities. Teo emphasized the need for vigilance and urged the public to verify the authenticity of any communication claiming to be from the ministry before responding.

The deputy minister disclosed that the ministry has received calls from individuals claiming to have been contacted by ministry officials. Upon verification, it was discovered that the calls were indeed made from the ministry's number, highlighting the sophistication of the scammers' tactics.

Why this matters: The increasing prevalence of scams and impersonation cases targeting government officials highlights the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to protect the public from falling victim to these fraudulent activities. As technology advances, scammers are becoming more sophisticated in their methods, making it crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and for authorities to develop effective countermeasures.

Teo also addressed the recent spread of an AI-edited video clip showing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim discussing an investment scheme with lucrative returns. She stated that she has sent the relevant video link directly to Meta, requesting the content to be removed from all its platforms. Teo emphasized the need for tech giants and social media providers to consider methods for alerting users if the content they are consuming is generated using AI technology.

"Tech giants and social media providers need to consider methods for alerting users if the content they are consuming is generated using AI technology," Teo said, highlighting the importance of transparency and user awareness in combating the spread of misinformation and scams.

The deputy minister made these remarks during a Hari Raya Aidilfitri donation program for Kulai Families, where 225 families were feted with an Aidilfitri feast and presented with duit raya, including students who have gained entry into tertiary education. Teo emphasized the need for tougher laws and policies to hold social media platforms accountable for allowing the promotion of scam apps and content, stating that the current screening algorithm is not effective and a human touch is required to ensure scam ads do not pass through.

Key Takeaways

• Deputy Minister warns of scammers impersonating ministry officials
• 35,500 social media posts removed for scams, fake investments, gambling
• Scammers using ministry's phone numbers to deceive victims
• AI-edited video of PM promoting investment scheme removed from platforms
• Call for tougher laws to hold social media accountable for scam content