Implement phishing simulations to raise awareness of scams, cyber security, says Fahmi

Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has proposed the implementation of phishing simulations as a proactive measure to raise public awareness on cyber security and scam threats. This is seen as important due to the high number of scam and online fraud cases in the country, especially among individuals aged 17 to 40, who are the majority of victims. Fahmi plans to discuss this with several parties in the Anti-Scam Action Coalition in order to implement it as soon as possible and help raise awareness about cyber security and scams. He acknowledges the challenge posed by cyber criminals’ creativity, with new scam types continuously emerging.

Fahmi believes that relying solely on awareness tours is not sufficient and is considering alternative approaches. He made these remarks to reporters after attending the Sabah state-level 2023 National Anti-Scam Tour at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) on October 28. The two-day programme, ending on October 29, was officiated by Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. The programme was organized by CyberSecurity Malaysia and CelcomDigi in collaboration with GBAS and the Communications and Digital Ministry, aimed at educating the community about various types of scams, the latest tactics used by scammers, and tips to avoid falling victim to scams.

Sabah is the fourth state in the tour series after Selangor/Kuala Lumpur, Perlis, and Sarawak. The tour will continue in Kelantan and Johor before concluding in Putrajaya. Fahmi highlighted in his speech that the Cyber999 Cyber Incident Response Centre, operated by CyberSecurity Malaysia, recorded 4,381 cyber security incidents from January to September 2023, with 64% (2,788 incidents) related to online fraud. He stressed the need for intensified efforts, initiatives, and campaigns at all levels of society to combat scams and online fraud, using creative and comprehensive approaches.

In addition, Fahmi announced that the government has allocated a total of RM20mil to the National Scam Response Centre in Budget 2024, signaling the unity government’s serious approach towards combating online fraud and strengthening cyber security. He emphasized the importance of public awareness and urged individuals to take this matter seriously.

Source: Bernama