CYBERJAYA February 10, 2026 – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has successfully dismantled another syndicate operating Fake Base Transceiver Stations (Fake BTS) in a special operation conducted today in the Bukit Chagar area, Johor Bahru.
The joint operation, carried out with telecommunications service providers, followed public tip-offs and MCMC’s detection of irregular patterns through technical monitoring and network analysis. The monitoring revealed interception of legitimate telecommunications networks and the distribution of fraudulent SMS messages to users in the vicinity.
MCMC enforcement officers identified a male suspect and a vehicle being used as a mobile platform for transmitting Fake BTS signals. On-site inspection confirmed the use of unauthorised communication devices capable of hijacking legitimate networks and directly sending scam SMS messages to nearby mobile devices.
MCMC stated that the suspect had been recruited by the syndicate through offers of daily-paid “jobs” — a common tactic used by such groups to expand their operations while shielding the real masterminds behind the network.
The discovery further confirms the existence of an organised syndicate targeting high-traffic public areas, thereby heightening the risk of fraud and threatening the integrity and security of the nation’s telecommunications system.
The case is being investigated under Section 239(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 [Act 588] and Regulation 16(1)(b) of the Communications and Multimedia (Technical Standards) Regulations 2000. Conviction under Section 239 carries a maximum fine of RM1,000,000 or imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both. Offences under Regulation 16 are punishable by a fine of up to RM300,000 or imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
MCMC stressed that it will show no leniency toward any party abusing communication networks. Technical monitoring and enforcement efforts will continue to be intensified to safeguard users and maintain the reliability and security of the country’s telecommunications infrastructure.
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