KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is advising internet users to always exercise caution when providing their personal information for social media and online apps, especially dating platforms.
The MCMC Communications and Corporate Department said in a statement today the internet has opened up opportunities for wider communication, including immoral activities, such as wild parties, illicit relationships and and prostitution.
It said such illegal cases will be investigated by the police.
“MCMC is concerned about the recent marketing gimmick by dating site Sugarbook, which claims that many Malaysian women, especially university students, have offered themselves as ‘sugar babies’ on the app.
“Such claims should be investigated because the user profiles could be manipulated to deceive victims,” said the statement.
It was recently reported that Malaysia had the third-highest number of sugar daddies in Asia behind India and Indonesia in the Sugarbook app, a sugar daddy-sugar baby dating platform.
The MCMC also said that, apart from Sugarbook, other apps also provide online dating services.
“Users should be aware that they are exposed to cyberattacks if they do not take the necessary cybersecurity measures.
“The risk of love scams will increase if they are exposed to malware and spyware, as well as personal data leakage and sexual harassment,” it added.
The MCMC said it will continue to monitor and investigate the Sugarbook app, and will take necessary action against users and platform-owners should there be any violation of the law.
It said that the police will also take further action if elements of prostitution are involved.
It also advised parents and guardians to monitor their children’s internet activities, as well as look out for lifestyle changes that may arouse suspicion. – Bernama, February 15, 2021
