KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 21 — The Communications Ministry has reiterated its commitment to combat online fraud that are increasingly prevalent on social media platforms under the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA), which came into effect on January 1.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said a regulatory testing ground is being conducted to examine the regulatory mechanisms for social media platforms, including age limits, to ensure they fully understand the act.
“ONSA applies to platforms and if they continue to allow incidents such as AI deepfake, investment scams, and online gambling, then a hefty fine of between RM1 million and RM10 million can be imposed.
“We give them some time to ensure they understand all their duties and responsibilities,” he told the media after officiating the Arts and Culture Unity Programme at KL Gateway Mall here today.
Apart from ensuring a safe digital ecosystem, Fahmi said the move is important to curb criminal activities including scams and the dissemination of content that is harmful to children’s mental development.
He reminded the public not to be easily fooled by the sweet promises of fraud syndicates with small capitals and big returns, and not to blindly believe investment offers on social media platforms.
