TECH ADVANCES HINDER FIGHT AGAINST ONLINE CHILD EXPLOITATION - MCCA

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 3 (Bernama) -- The emergence of new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), the use of algospeak, and dark web activities, is making it increasingly difficult to detect and prevent the online exploitation of children.

Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA) president Siraj Jalil said predators are now shifting to closed communication spaces like Telegram and Discord, making their digital footprints harder to trace.

“Children under 16 are emotionally unstable and are still in the process of forming their identity. When predators 'groom' them by feigning emotional care and understanding, these children easily become ensnared, as predators are skilled at acting as good listeners,” he said.

He explained that the misuse of technologies like AI complicates content filtering. This problem is compounded by algospeak and encrypted communications on platforms such as Telegram and Discord, which are inherently difficult to monitor.

"Dark web forums pose a greater challenge, as tracking a perpetrator's digital footprint presents significant difficulties not just for our agencies, but for international bodies as well," he said during Bernama TV’s Malaysia Petang Ini programme today, which focused on the topic “MCMC Strengthens Children’s Digital Safety”. 

Siraj stressed the need for formal and comprehensive digital education across all levels of society to ensure children, parents and the community are equipped to understand and manage cybersecurity risks effectively.

He said digital education can no longer rely solely on awareness campaigns. Instead, it requires a structured educational framework involving schools, parents and the wider community, given the far more complex nature of modern threats.

He added that public understanding of digital security legislation is also crucial, so that users are not only aware of prohibitions but also understand their rights and the protections provided by the government.

Siraj highlighted that the current 94 percent compliance rate on social media platforms is insufficient, as the standard must rise to match evolving threats.

“We do not want that 94 percent figure to drop next year. Instead, let it rise to 95 percent, or even a more desirable 99 percent,” he said.

He further proposed that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) publish compliance reports more frequently, at least every three to six months, to enhance transparency and serve as a reference for stakeholders.

Siraj also recommended conducting independent audits and adopting safety by design principles so that child protection is integrated from the earliest stages of a platform's development.

-- BERNAMA