Cybercrime awareness must be promoted to protect Malaysians, says Lee

KUALA LUMPUR: More awareness on cyber crimes should be promoted among Malaysians so that they are more vigilant, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.

The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said cyber crime literacy should be a priority for the police given the rise in such crimes in recent years.

"Cyber crimes are getting more sophisticated and more victims, especially senior citizens are falling victim to it.

"I hope the police will give greater attention to educating the public, especially senior citizens on the dangers of cyber crimes and why they must not fall victim easily," he said when contacted on Tuesday (Sept 26).

Lee was commenting on a report quoting Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, who stated that close 16,000 individuals were detained for their involvement in commercial crimes this year.

The DIGP also stated various efforts by the Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) against syndicates, including freezing and seizing millions of ringgit worth of assets and funds.

Lee praised the police's efforts in curbing commercial crimes, especially scams in the country.

"It is a good move to let the public be informed of action taken against perpetrators of commercial crimes," he added.

Lee said the police should be a step ahead of the criminals, adding that the government should ensure the crime busters were equipped with the latest knowledge and technical know-how.

"Given advances in technology, the government must make sure that the police will be able to stay ahead of the criminals by giving them sufficient equipment and knowledge," he said.

Lee also praised Ayob Khan for reminding senior police officers and supervisors to uphold integrity in the police force.

"This is something very essential to ensure the police will always project the right image to the public.

"Discipline must always be a priority in the interest of integrity in the police force.

"Integrity is a vital component for any organisation or agency, especially the police force," he said.