KUALA LUMPUR: Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB), in collaboration with Ericsson, has introduced a new capability within its 5G network management systems to detect illegal transmitters used to send scam messages to mobile users.
The technology, announced at the 2026 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, marks the world’s first trial of a Radio Access Network (RAN) and network management enhancement designed to detect false base stations within a commercial 5G network.
Deployed across DNB’s national 5G network and powered by Ericsson’s software and cybersecurity platform, the system helps identify suspicious transmitters that impersonate legitimate mobile base stations and send messages containing malicious links.
“This latest innovation provides an additional layer of protection for Malaysians against scammers who deploy illegal transmitters to impersonate legitimate mobile base stations and send authentic‑looking messages containing malicious links aimed at stealing personal or financial information,” DNB said in a statement.
It said the technology delivers enhanced network visibility and analytics to identify and neutralise such threats without the need for manual tracing, strengthening protection for mobile users against scam-related activities.
DNB chief executive officer Datuk Azman Ismail said: “Our foremost priority has always been to deliver a secure and trusted national 5G network for the people of Malaysia. This innovation strengthens consumer protection by remotely detecting false base stations, helping to prevent scams and safeguard privacy.”
“It marks another important milestone in building a safer, more intelligent 5G ecosystem, and reflects DNB’s ongoing commitment to continuously enhancing the quality, resilience and security of our network for customers nationwide, at no extra cost,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ericsson Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh head David Hägerbro said the enhancement demonstrates how advanced network intelligence can strengthen subscriber protection without requiring additional hardware.
“It reflects the progress of Malaysia’s digital journey, where performance, sustainability, and security go hand in hand.”
