TUMPAT, January 21 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has identified Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Telegram as the leading platforms for scammers, with fraud on Facebook alone accounting for an estimated RM500 million in losses in 2023. He noted that scammers exploit the popularity of these platforms, deceiving users through 14 different types of schemes, as well as phone call and in-person scams.
Speaking at the Ihsan MADANI programme, Fahmi emphasized the need for a comprehensive online fraud awareness campaign targeting schools to educate students and parents about safe social media practices. He added that recent amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act, alongside tighter platform regulations and social media licensing, aim to empower authorities to combat scam crimes more effectively.
The minister also highlighted the urgency of addressing these scams, given their widespread financial and emotional impact on Malaysians. Measures taken are expected to assist law enforcement in curbing fraud and protecting the public from cybercriminals.
