Beware of Links and QR Codes Sent Via E-Mail: MCMC Warns Elected Representatives

GEORGE TOWN: Elected representatives in Malaysia are being reminded to exercise caution when handling e-mail, particularly those requesting them to click on links or scan QR codes. Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, the Communications Minister, warned that these links could potentially contain malware, which is malicious software designed to harm computer systems.

"That's why we're reminding MPs and state assemblymen to be extra careful," Fahmi said during a recent event in Bandar Baru Air Itam. "The e-mail could also be a phishing attempt, where if the recipient clicks the link or contacts the scammer, their personal information could be stolen."

Fahmi made this warning via the secretariat of the Dewan Rakyat after the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) issued an alert to elected representatives. On September 13, former economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli claimed on Facebook that he and Subang MP Wong Chen had been threatened with the distribution of "lewd videos" if they didn't pay up.

Each e-mail demanded payment of US$100,000 (approximately RM420,000), and Fahmi confirmed that only male elected representatives had received these emails. The police are currently investigating the matter.

Fahmi explained that the modus operandi used by scammers involves using publicly available information from official websites such as the Dewan Rakyat, Dewan Negara (Senate), and state legislative assemblies to gather email addresses and official profile photos.

Security Measures to Prevent Scams

Fahmi urged all internet users to take precautions when it comes to security. He recommended changing passwords at least once a year and activating two-step authentication.

"If someone tries to log in from a new device, the account owner will receive a notification," Fahmi said. "This is an added security measure to prevent hacking attempts."

Be Vigilant of Suspicious Messages

Fahmi also advised the public to be vigilant of suspicious messages, emails, or social media posts. He warned that even if you receive a message from someone you know, don't trust it immediately.

"Contact the person directly to confirm," Fahmi said. "Otherwise, it could be a scammer impersonating them for malicious purposes, such as asking for donations."

Additional Hacking Method

Fahmi also warned about an additional hacking method used to take control of mobile phones and apps like WhatsApp.

"If you receive a wedding invitation message with a link to an 'APK' file, never open it," Fahmi said. "This is a known hacking method."