Fadilah - Net users must be aware of cyber threats

by Johnson K Saai. Posted on May 7, 2011, Saturday

STATE-OF-THE-ART: Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Fadillah (right), seen here with Pikom executive director Ong Kian Yew (left) and Pikom Sarawak chapter pro tem chairman Adre Suharto, has cautioned that cyber crimes in the country were on the rise.

KUCHING: Cyber security incidents and threats in the country are on the rise and users are reminded to take precautions when entering cyber space.
Deputy Science, Technology and Innovative Minister Datuk Fadillah Yusof said based on updated figures available from Cyber Security Malaysia, an agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovative, there seemed to be an increase in the number of fraud cases.
He said it could be due to various factors, such as people’s willingness to come forward to lodge complaints, greater public awareness and threats becoming more rampant.
Whatever the reasons, Fadillah said what was more important was for the public to know the risks of entering the Internet domain.
“Many have fallen victim to cyber scams after they failed to observe the necessary security guidelines when using the Internet,” he said.
In this context, he advised Internet users to visit the website of Cyber Security Malaysia where they would find tips on identifying potential scams, to avoid becoming victims to cyber criminals.
Without quoting any figures, Fadillah said among the most common cyber security incidents and threats reported in the country were harassment and cheating through online transactions.
“In Malaysia the problem is under control and the authorities are constantly monitoring the situation,” he disclosed at a media conference after opening the PC Fair 2011 organised by the National ICT Association of Malaysia (Pikom) at Permata car park yesterday.
He said in view of the increase in cyber threats, there was greater potential and opportunity for people to create software to make going online safer.
Earlier at the launch of the PC Fair, Fadillah encouraged the new generation to take the information and communication technology (ICT) seriously.
“The Internet we all know today is a store-house of knowledge and a platform for creativity and innovation, which has become a critical enabler in our effort to transform into a knowledge-led innovative economy.
“Furthermore, the ability to harness the power of ICT effectively and efficiently will increase our capacity and capabilities to compete on a global scale and thereby increase our competitiveness,” he added.
Also speaking at the opening ceremony yesterday were Pikom Sarawak chapter pro-tem chairman Adre Suharto and Pikom executive director Ong Kian Yew.