MCMC Blocks More Than 3 Billion SMS Messages and 2.5 Billion Scam Calls
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has blocked 3.04 billion suspicious and fraudulent SMS messages, as well as 2.5 billion scam calls, between 1 January 2022 and 30 June 2026.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said that during the same period, 190,429 mobile and fixed-line numbers identified as sending suspicious SMS messages were also terminated in collaboration with telecommunications service providers.
He said the measures were implemented to curb the misuse of communication services for fraudulent activities and to protect the public from falling victim to scam syndicates.
“MCMC continues to work closely with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) through measures such as requesting the removal of harmful content from social media platforms, blocking malicious websites, and providing technical support, including information sharing and digital forensic analysis, to assist investigations.
“In addition, MCMC carries out regulatory and enforcement actions whenever there are violations of laws under its jurisdiction, particularly the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) and the Online Safety Act 2025 (Act 866),” he said.
He was responding to an oral question raised by Datuk Seri S. Vell Paari Samy Vellu (MIC) during a sitting of the Dewan Negara today.
According to Datuk Seri Fahmi, MCMC also conducts proactive monitoring and may take action against harmful online content in accordance with Section 233 of Act 588. The Commission also utilises provisions under Act 866 to address content involving financial scams, further strengthening online safety.
He added that the government, through MCMC, has established an official complaint mechanism that enables the public to report telephone numbers, website links, or accounts suspected of being involved in fraudulent activities, including scam calls impersonating government officials, financial institutions, the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and other public agencies.
“Between 1 January and 7 July 2026, a total of 158 complaints relating to scam calls, including those involving impersonation of government officials, were received and processed through the Consumer Redress Portal (CRP).
“The enforcement of restrictions on prohibited SMS content, including hyperlinks, requests for personal information, and contact phone numbers, has been in effect since 1 September 2024,” he said.
He advised the public to immediately report any suspicious accounts or content to their service providers and the relevant authorities if they suspect fraudulent activity.
“In cases involving financial losses or where individuals have become victims of financial scams, the public should immediately contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) via the 997 hotline. Prompt reporting enables swift action to freeze the flow of funds and support ongoing investigations by the authorities,” he added.
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