Malaysian authorities have unequivocally dismissed recent allegations of a data breach, claiming that the MyKad data of 17 million Malaysians were leaked and sold on the dark web.
Following thorough investigations, the Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, and the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) confirmed that they found no evidence supporting claims of compromised sensitive personal data.
Historical Evidence Misinterpreted as Recent Data Breach
NACSA’s preliminary investigation reveals that the samples presented as evidence of the alleged data breach are outdated.
These samples, dating back to 2015-2017, have been recirculated online without any confirmation of their relevance to current events.
This crucial finding undermines the credibility of claims suggesting a fresh breach. It also highlights the risks of misinformation stemming from recycled or misinterpreted data.
Thorough Investigations Reveal No Leaks
Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution reassured the public of the robust security measures in place to protect MyKad data,
“We assure the public that data security on MyKad is guaranteed and always safe,” he told Awani.
He based his statement, citing reports from the National Registration Department (NRD) and the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA).
Both agencies conducted extensive checks and found no signs of unauthorised access or data leaks.
The controversy originated from an unverified claim posted by the X account, @StealthMole, alleging that samples of Malaysian MyKad were openly sold on the dark web.
However, the Home Minister clarified that the images of MyKad shown as “evidence” were not indicative of a breach.
Additionally, Bukit Aman’s Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) Deputy Director, Datuk Rohaimi Md Isa, stated that their Cyber and Multimedia Crime Investigation Division found no evidence supporting the dark web sale allegations.
He also noted that no police reports on the matter have been lodged to date.
Unverified Claims and Public Caution
The baseless allegations have highlighted the dangers of misinformation in an increasingly digital world.
Both the Home Minister and the PDRM urged the public to exercise caution when encountering unverified claims online.
“The public must be vigilant and refrain from spreading unsubstantiated information that could cause unnecessary panic,” said Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution.
To calm the nerves of the public, Malaysian authorities have emphasised their commitment to ongoing monitoring and quick action in the event of any credible threats to data security.
Featured image credit: Edited from Freepik and Facebook.
