kuala lumpur – The threatening email, including screenshots of artificial intelligence (AI), produced fake videos sent to several lawmakers who are likely to have originated from a single email address, says Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The Minister of Communications said the initial check revealed that the email was written in almost identical language and contained the same screenshot.
The email warned that the produced video would be in circulation unless the recipient paid USD 100,000 (RM420,500).
“The check found that emails used almost identical language, included similar screenshots, and were thought to have been sent from the same email address,” Fami said in a Facebook post on Sunday (September 14).
Among those targeted were Pandan MP Datuk Seri Rafiji Ramri, Subang MP Wong Chen, Sungai Petani MP Dr Taufik Yohari, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adri, Selangor Ex member Najwan Harimi, Senator Manoran Mohammad and Krim Chia Zen Exon Exon Do Farmi.
“I received the same email,” Fami revealed.
He emphasized that the government was looking at the incident seriously and had instructed the Malaysian News Agency and the Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to work closely with the police to follow the criminals behind forced emails sent via Google's Gmail platform.
“The government emphasizes that sending offensive communications with the intent of intimidation is a crime under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act of 1998 and will be punished with a fine of up to RM500,000, up to two years, or both,” he said.
He added that the case could be investigated under Section 503 of the Criminal Code.
“The Madani government will not compromise with parties that blackmail or deceive the public by abuse of technology and communications networks.
“All efforts will be mobilized to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice in order to protect the safety of society,” Fami said.
