PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) detects and foils an average of 80,000 to 90,000 cyberattack attempts every day to protect its databases and information.
MACC Records and Information Management Division director Zuhairie Abu Bakar said the information handled by the commission was highly valuable and constantly exposed to various forms of digital threats.
“Currently, the Records and Information Management Division detects and foils an average of between 80,000 and 90,000 cyberattack attempts daily.
“This figure clearly illustrates that the information managed by the MACC is highly valuable and constantly exposed to various threats,” he said in an article on the commission’s information management.
He said information security threats involved not only cyberattacks but also attempts to gain unauthorised access and data theft.
To address these risks, the division adopts a layered defence approach involving various security mechanisms to protect the commission’s databases and information.
“These measures include Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), network security systems such as firewalls, real-time system monitoring, data encryption and regular security testing of application systems, as well as testing before any application system is approved for use,” he said.
Zuhairie said information leaks could compromise the confidentiality of operations and, in certain circumstances, endanger witnesses and alert individuals under investigation.
He said premature disclosure of information could also give certain parties an opportunity to destroy documents, alter transaction trails or influence individuals linked to an investigation.
“More worryingly, premature disclosure of information could give certain parties the opportunity to destroy documents, alter transaction trails or influence those involved,” he said.
He added that widespread circulation of information relating to a case could expose witnesses to pressure or influence, making it more difficult to gather evidence and obtain statements.
He urged members of the public with information on corruption or misconduct to channel it to the MACC through official channels instead of spreading it on social media.
“If you have information on corruption or misconduct, submit it officially to the authorities instead of spreading it on social media.
“Every complaint received must undergo screening, scrutiny and assessment based on facts and jurisdiction before appropriate action is determined,” he said.
Zuhairie said systematic, secure and controlled information management was essential to prevent information from being misused or exposed to irresponsible parties, thereby helping to safeguard the integrity and effectiveness of MACC enforcement.
