Malaysia Removes Over 40,000 AI-Generated Disinformation Posts Amid Deepfake Scam Surge

Malaysia Removes Over 40,000 AI-Generated Disinformation Posts

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has reported the removal of 41,394 AI-created disinformation posts from social media platforms between January 1, 2022, and August 15, 2023. This includes 1,005 deepfake investment scam posts targeted at misleading users.

These takedowns were initiated at the request of the Malaysian government, specifically through formal requests made by MCMC. However, final decisions to remove content depend on each social media platform’s community guidelines and their compliance with Malaysian law.

Government Collaboration and Future Plans

The Communications Ministry emphasized ongoing collaboration with social media platforms and enforcement agencies to curb the spread of false information generated by AI. This partnership is key to tackling the challenges posed by rapidly advancing AI technologies in the online space.

Looking ahead, the ministry plans to establish an Online Safety Committee. This committee will advise and provide recommendations on online safety issues and will be managed by Malaysia’s Law Ministry. Its role will be to strengthen the country’s digital safety framework and address online disinformation more effectively.

Automatic Labelling of AI-Generated Content

To further combat misinformation, the ministry is studying the possibility of requiring service providers to implement automatic content labelling for AI-generated materials. This measure aims to help users identify potentially misleading, manipulative, or inaccurate content more easily.

Clear labelling of AI-created content would assist social media users in making informed decisions and reduce the risk of misinformation spreading unchecked online.

What This Means for PR and Communications Professionals

• Understanding the impact of AI-generated disinformation is critical for managing brand reputation and public trust.
• Collaborating with digital platforms and legal authorities might become a standard part of monitoring and crisis management strategies.
• Keeping updated on regulatory changes—such as mandatory AI content labelling—can help communications teams prepare for new compliance requirements.

For professionals seeking to enhance their skills in AI and digital communication, exploring relevant courses can provide practical knowledge on managing AI tools and understanding their implications. Resources like Complete AI Training’s courses for communications specialists offer focused learning paths.

As AI-generated content continues to influence the information landscape, staying informed and proactive will be essential for effective communication and safeguarding public discourse.