SIBU: The fast-paced digital era and increasing dependence on the internet have given rise to cybercrime which is a growing concern for both the authorities and the community.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohd Azman Ahmad Sapri explained during a Townhall Discussion on Cybercrimes at Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS) here this morning why people are susceptible to scams and the factors contributing to the rise in cybercrime.
Cybercrime encompasses various criminal activities conducted online, including scams, hacking, identity theft, and cyberattacks.
These crimes not only impact individuals and communities in Malaysia but also affect communities worldwide.
“Several factors contribute to the increase in online commercial crime cases, including low self-control, gullibility, desperation, and lack of awareness about cybercrime.
“There is no denying that society’s indifference and lack of awareness about the modus operandi of commercial crimes are contributing factors to the people being easily fooled.
“Victims often panic and keep the suspect’s phone calls secret from their loved ones. They may unwittingly provide banking information to unknown parties, falling prey to the allure of quick riches promised by scammers,” he said.
Mohd Azman said there are no shortcuts to wealth, and cautioned against trusting unsolicited phone calls, as legitimate investments are not conducted over the phone.
“Continuous education to create awareness, stringent cyber security monitoring, and collaboration between authorities and the community must be implemented from time to time to combat cybercrime effectively.
“The goal is to catch cybercriminals profiting from illegal activities and to create a safer cyber society for all, shielding individuals from the ever-present threat of cybercrime,” he said.
The townhall discussion, which was officiated by Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Michael Tiang Ming Tee, served as a platform for gathering views and ideas while addressing social issues, with a primary focus on cybercrime and ways to prevent falling victim to scams.
The programme aimed to enhance cybercrime awareness and legal education related to such crimes among the public.
Also present were Deputy Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata and Sibu police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili.
