CYBERJAYA: A syndicate spreading fake SMS using illegal telecommunications equipment has been taken down by the authorities.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said this was achieved through a strategic collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) in a recent joint collaboration, codenamed Op Pancing, following public complaints and intelligence gathering.
“An individual was arrested while operating the Fake Base Transceiver Station (Fake BTS) from a vehicle parked near a major shopping centre in Kuala Lumpur.
“An inspection found the communications equipment actively functioning as a Fake BTS,” the commission said in a statement today (Sept 6).
It added that frequency tests later confirmed that the equipment was transmitting SMS containing false content, phishing links, and even gambling-related messages to members of the public in the area.
“Following the arrest, MCMC and the police raided a two-storey terrace house in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, used as a storage facility for vehicles including a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) and communication equipment linked to the Fake BTS,” it said.
The commission said preliminary investigations revealed the syndicate’s new modus operandi, where the Fake BTS equipment had been modified for mobile operations.
“A total of 45 items worth about RM100,000 were seized, while one individual’s statement was recorded to assist with further investigations,” it said.
The case is being investigated under Section 239(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 [Act 588], which provides for a maximum fine of RM1 million, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both, upon conviction.
In addition, the matter is also being investigated under Regulation 34(5)(c) of the Communications and Multimedia (Spectrum) Regulations 2000, which carries a maximum fine of RM300,000, imprisonment of up to three years, or both.
