In an era dominated by digital technologies and online interactions, cyber security has become a paramount concern for individuals and businesses. Recognising the urgent need to address the rising incidents of financial scams conducted on digital platforms, SEGi College Kuala Lumpur’s School of Computing and IT (SOCIT) took proactive steps by organising a mini exhibition on “Cyber Security and Cyber Threats.” This initiative aimed to raise awareness about the prevalent dangers in Malaysia’s digital landscape and equip individuals with the knowledge to protect themselves.
The meticulously organised exhibition, led by the dedicated lecturer Sathish Sarma, centred on shedding light on four key cyber threats affecting the Malaysian population. Its primary objective was to empower attendees with the awareness and tools to safeguard against these threats.
The exhibition focused on four prevalent digital scams in Malaysia: mule account scams, Macau scams, malware scams, and website phishing scams. These scams have caused severe consequences for victims, ranging from financial loss to emotional distress.
Recent reports from the Malaysian Cyber Security Agency (CSA) have raised alarm bells. In 2023 alone, Malaysia witnessed a sharp surge in digital scams, with over 20,000 reported cyber-related financial scams leading to losses exceeding RM100 million. The most common scams included phishing attempts targeting online banking credentials and identity theft through social engineering tactics. These figures underscore the urgency of initiatives like the mini-exhibition organised by SOCIT to counter the growing threat of digital scams in Malaysia.
Held on 20 July 2023, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the exhibition attracted significant interest, with forty participants from various programs actively engaging in the event. The exhibition effectively conveyed the critical importance of cyber security awareness through informative presentations, interactive Q&A sessions, and engaging discussions.
Participants left the event armed with a newfound understanding of the potential risks they face in the digital realm and equipped with the knowledge to protect themselves and their loved ones from financial scams.
This mini-exhibition has been a significant step in creating a safer digital environment for Malaysians by raising awareness and promoting a proactive approach to cyber security. As cyber criminals continually evolve tactics, staying informed and vigilant remains the best defence against financial scams in the digital era. SEGi College Kuala Lumpur’s SOCIT’s dedication to organising such events underscores the institution’s commitment to empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate and safeguard the digital landscape effectively.
