UNSCRUPULOUS individuals are believed to be using AI-generated images of women—while posing as holders of a 'Datuk' title—to lure the public into investment schemes and charitable activities.
Datuk Seri Michael Chong, head of the MCA Public Services and Complaints Bureau, stated that those involved have also misappropriated the identities of several prominent national figures to convince the public that these women have connections to influential individuals.
Among the identities allegedly used are those of the Prime Minister, as well as the current and former Inspector-General of Police, appearing in Facebook posts that promote these women.
Chong explained that the modus operandi involves leveraging honorary titles and purported ties to influential figures to build trust, subsequently drawing the public toward investment opportunities and charitable endeavours.
He said the suspicious activity on Facebook was first detected last week.
"Initially, we thought this was nothing out of the ordinary, but upon closer inspection, we discovered that the Prime Minister—as well as the former Inspector-General of Police and the current Inspector-General of Police—were being used in these posts.
"That was when the matter became very serious," he said during a press conference.
Chong stated that the woman in question is presented as holding the title of 'Datuk'; however, checks conducted by his team failed to verify that she possesses any honorary title recognised in Malaysia.
He further alleged that the woman's identity and image were generated using AI.
He noted that the Facebook account in question continues to publish posts, even though it is believed to have been taken down and subsequently reactivated several times.
Chong expressed concern that the use of honorary titles and the identities of prominent figures could mislead the public into believing that the woman is a legitimate individual with connections to influential circles.
He said that they have yet to receive any complaints from individuals claiming to have suffered financial losses due to this account.
"So far, we have not received any complaints," he said.
He added that it is difficult to determine whether the individuals behind these activities are operating from within or outside the country.
"We cannot say with 100 per cent certainty that they are foreigners, nor can we say with 100 per cent certainty that they are locals," he stated.
However, Chong suspects the possible involvement of local parties, as the account operator appears to be familiar with the identities of prominent Malaysians and the specific groups most likely to be targeted. – October 29, 2026
