MCMC Removes Over 63,000 Fraudulent Contents From Social Media in 2024

In the 2024 crackdown on fraudulent online content, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) removed a total of 63,652 pieces of deceptive content from social media platforms, a tenfold increase from the 6,297 pieces removed in 2023.

The fraudulent content included those involving artificial intelligence (AI) such as deepfakes, impersonations of notable figures, videos, graphics, and texts.

Scammers employed AI technology to create deepfake videos featuring prominent figures like Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and former Bank Negara Governor Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz. A prevalent form of these scams involved “Investment Guru” schemes, where imposters, such as the fraudulent “Zeti Akhtar,” purported to share investment tips and experiences to lure victims. These scams typically duped individuals into joining fraudulent WhatsApp groups and falling prey to investment fraud. Statistics from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) highlight investment scams as the most common type of scam.

Communications Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching urged online platform providers like TikTok and META to enhance their monitoring efforts to combat the surge in harmful and fraudulent online content, particularly those involving AI.

In an earlier Facebook post, Teo also warned the public against falling for deepfake videos titled “Zeti’s Lifetime Investment Secrets” in Mandarin. In the video, the imposter “Zeti” claims to have over 40 years of experience in the financial sector, shaping Malaysia’s monetary policies, and witnessing significant economic changes. The video deceitfully invites viewers to join an online community for stock tips and economic insights, ultimately leading them into investment scams.