MCMC investigates surge in WhatsApp account hijacking complaints

KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has launched an investigation into widespread complaints of WhatsApp account fraud affecting users across the country. The regulator is reviewing reports from individuals whose accounts have been accessed and used without authorisation, prompting concern among consumers about the security of the widely-used messaging platform.

The move comes as affected users report unauthorised access to their WhatsApp accounts, with some indicating that fraudsters have used the compromised accounts to contact their contacts or conduct scams. The incidents suggest potential vulnerabilities in account security or user authentication processes that cybercriminals are exploiting.

The MCMC's involvement signals official concern about the issue and suggests authorities are taking steps to assess the extent of the problem affecting Malaysian WhatsApp users. The commission is expected to coordinate findings with relevant stakeholders as it seeks to understand the technical and operational factors contributing to the account takeovers.

Users experiencing suspicious WhatsApp account activity are being encouraged to report incidents through official channels and to enable enhanced security features such as two-step verification on their accounts. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine whether the fraud represents an isolated issue or a broader security vulnerability.