Kuala Lumpur: The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybercrimes is becoming a grave issue, says Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf, Director of Malaysia's Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID). Speaking at the Asia International Security Summit and Expo 2025, he highlighted how cybercriminals are leveraging AI to conduct sophisticated attacks, creating unprecedented challenges for cybersecurity efforts.
"AI has enabled criminals to churn through huge datasets with incredible speed, helping them craft highly convincing phishing emails targeted at deceiving individuals," Ramli explained. He emphasized how these advancements in AI make fraudulent communications harder to identify, thus increasing the risk of successful cyberattacks.
Rising Threats to Critical Sectors
Ramli expressed concern over the impact of AI-driven cybercrime on critical sectors such as healthcare and transportation. Attacks on hospital systems could disrupt patient care, putting lives at risk, while breaches in transportation networks could endanger public safety and hinder mobility. These scenarios highlight the urgent need for robust defense mechanisms and efficient response plans to protect critical infrastructure.
One of the key challenges posed by AI is the creation of realistic fake content through deepfake technology. Criminals can generate fake audio or video files that convincingly mimic real individuals, enabling them to manipulate or scam their targets more effectively.
Another area of concern is the automation of phishing attacks. With AI, attackers can identify software vulnerabilities quickly and execute precision attacks at unprecedented speeds, putting defenders under immense pressure to keep up.
Cybercrime Statistics in Malaysia
Over the past five years, Malaysia has seen a sharp rise in cybercrime cases. Between 2020 and 2024, 143,000 cases were reported, accounting for 85% of all commercial crimes during this period. This indicates that cybersecurity threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, necessitating significant changes in security practices for both individuals and organizations.
Ramli stressed the importance of collective vigilance against evolving cyber threats. He urged the public to be more aware of these risks and called for greater investment in technological advancements to combat AI-driven cybercrime.
"To the extent cybercriminals will become more advanced, we can ensure that people and organizations are educated on how to recognize and deal with these challenges," he stated.
By prioritizing proactive measures and fostering a culture of cybersecurity, Malaysia can strengthen its defenses against the persistent threat of AI-driven cybercrimes.
