Investigation Launched as Legislators Face Sexually Explicit Threats via AI Videos Involving 10 Parliament Members and State Officials
In a concerning development, several high-profile Malaysian politicians and leaders have received email threats, according to a press conference held in Kuala Lumpur. The investigation into these cyber threats is being led by Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail.
Ten reports of cyber threats have been received, with four of them formally lodged with the police. Among the leaders who received similar email threats are Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Subang MP Wong Chen, Sungai Petani MP Mohammed Taufiq Johari, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim, Selangor state executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Najwan Halimi, Senator Manolan Mohamad, Kulim state assemblyman Wong Chia Zen, Selangor state executive councillor for Islamic affairs and innovation culture Mohammad Fahmi Ngah, and opposition MP Wan Saiful Wan Jan (Tasek Gelugor).
Former economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli claimed he received a threat involving a fake video manipulated with artificial intelligence. Subang MP Wong Chen also reported receiving a similar threat via email. The sender of the threat demanded US$100,000 (RM420,000) from Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli to prevent the video from being spread.
Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail stated that the police investigations into the recipients of the other email threats revealed no real danger. For instance, a false report about schools in Telfs, Tirol, turned out to be a 'telephone game' effect, and the matter had already been processed by the police and prosecutor's office without any ongoing threat situation. No specific public details were disclosed about the personalities of the individuals who received the other email threats.
Certain parties are suspected of attempting to take advantage of the situation for financial gain and other purposes. However, the motive behind the cyber threats is still under investigation. Mohd Khalid Ismail announced any developments in the investigation will be conveyed to the relevant parties.
The investigation into the motives behind the cyber threats is ongoing, and the police are currently investigating the cyber threats targeting several MPs and assemblymen. The authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
