Big jump in cyber crime cases last year
10 March 2011 (New Straits Times)

KUALA LUMPUR: Online security threats have increased dramatically in the country, with the number more than doubling over the past year.

A total of 8,090 reports were made to CyberSecurity Malaysia last year compared with 3,564 in 2009.

In the first two months of this year, there were 2,136 cases.

CyberSecurity Malaysia chief executive Lt-Col (R) Husin Jazri said the figures showed there was a lack of awareness of cyber security in the country and this led to cyber crime, such as fraud, forgery, hacking and unauthorised access of the Internet.

He said CyberSecurity Malaysia had introduced CyberSAFE Programmes to educate Malaysians on the positive use of the Internet and Cyber999 Help Centre for Internet users to channel cyber security complaints, get safety tips, advisories and specialised services in cyber security.

"Cyber security in Malaysia is the same as in other parts of the world. We have issues and challenges but they are under control," he said at the launch of CyberSecurity Malaysia's "Safer Internet Month" campaign.

Husin advised users whose privacy had been infringed on to report to cyber999@cybersecurity.my.

Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry deputy secretary-general (policy) Datuk Dr Sharifah Zarah Syed Ahmad, who launched the campaign, said the ministry wanted to empower Malaysians with knowledge to protect their businesses, properties and families and increase their level of awareness.

The campaign, in collaboration with Microsoft Malaysia, is themed "Stop. Think. Connect."

It will run until April 10 and is aimed at educating parents how to safeguard their children from technology-related crimes.

Microsoft Malaysia managing director Ananth Lazarus said it was important to provide guidance on online protection.