THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is fending off up to 90,000 attempted cyberattacks every day, with the agency warning that leaked investigation data could endanger witnesses and give suspects opportunities to destroy evidence.
MACC Records and Information Management Division director Zuhairie Abu Bakar said the agency detected and blocked between 80,000 and 90,000 attempted cyberattacks daily as it sought to protect sensitive records and information.
“Currently, the Records and Information Management Division detects and blocks an average of between 80,000 and 90,000 attempted cyberattacks every day.
“This figure clearly illustrates that the information handled by the MACC is highly valuable and constantly exposed to various forms of threats,” he said in an article on the agency’s information management.
He said the threats included attempts to gain unauthorised access and steal data, beyond cyberattacks alone.
Zuhairie warned that premature disclosure of information could compromise the confidentiality of operations, expose witnesses to pressure or influence, and alert people being investigated.
“More worryingly, premature disclosure of information could give certain parties the opportunity to destroy documents, alter transaction trails or influence people connected to an investigation,” he said.
Such disclosures could also complicate evidence gathering and the recording of witness statements.
To guard against these risks, the division uses layered security measures, including multi-factor authentication, firewalls, real-time monitoring, data encryption and regular security testing of applications before they are approved for use.
Zuhairie also urged the public to submit information about suspected corruption or misconduct through official MACC channels instead of circulating it on social media.
“Every complaint received must undergo screening, scrutiny and assessment based on facts and jurisdiction before the appropriate action is determined,” he said.
He said secure and controlled information management was essential to prevent data misuse and protect the integrity and effectiveness of enforcement operations. - October 11, 2026
