News & Reviews:   scam

MyCERT is now issuing a warning to users in Malaysia to be careful when accessing files received via WhatsApp, especially WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp Desktop. MyCerts said there are irresponsible parties targeting local users by sending VBS-formatted files to WhatsApp users. The file will run automatically if opened using WhatsApp Desktop or WhatsApp Web when using the Windows operating system.

WhatsApp has announced a feature that checks known and unknown device linking for scams in Malaysia. If you click on a link that wants to link your device, it will show information about the user such as their number, country of origin and if the number is in your contacts or WhatsApp groups. It will then clearly state that it might be a scam, and you can then decide to continue or cancel.

Samsung Malaysia recently announced that their Samsung Galaxy S26 series phones can now answer unknown calls with a new feature called “Call Screening”. Instead of blocking out the call, you can activate it for an unknown caller. 

Meta has finally been sued for allegedly allowing these scam ads to continue to run rampant without any action being taken. The class action lawsuit was filed by Santa Clara County on behalf of California residents who say these scam ads violate state law. That said, what should you know about it?

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) has issued a public warning regarding a fake website impersonating its official platform in Malaysia. In a recent announcement shared on 12 May 2026, MOTAC urged users not to visit the suspicious website and to remain cautious of possible scam activities linked to the portal.

With the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, cybersecurity firm Kaspersky is warning football fans to stay vigilant as scammers ramp up attacks ahead of the tournament. With global excitement building for the tournament, cybercriminals are exploiting the hype through fake websites, phishing emails, and fraudulent promotions designed to steal money and personal data.

Today, Google has introduced an upgraded fraud protection feature under Google Play Protect for all Android users in Malaysia. The move is part of a broader effort to combat rising financial scams by preventing the installation of potentially harmful apps, particularly those installed outside official app stores. The rollout is supported by the National Cyber Security Agency under the National Security Council, reinforcing a coordinated national push to improve digital safety.

Smartphones have pretty much taken over almost everything. It has become our wallets, cameras, and personal data hubs, an all-in-one device. But this also makes them prime targets for cyber threats, which we have seen the rise of scams and spam over the years, especially since the pandemic.

Not all is bleak, though. At the same time, modern devices are more secure than ever thanks to significant improvements in operating systems and hardware-level protections. It makes sense for personal computers to have an anti-virus program to help guard against malicious attacks, but what about smartphones? Do you actually need an anti-virus app on your phone?

Recently, Google’s Scam Detection feature has arrived for the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. So, what should you know about it?

In yet another trending scam post, Malaysia’s Ministry of Finance (MOF) has publicly dismissed a social media message claiming that the government is offering a one-off RM500 Ramadan financial aid to citizens. The clarification came after a widely shared image and link circulated online that appeared to show the Prime Minister attached to the offer, suggesting recipients could check their eligibility through a website.