Cyber threats targeting Malaysian users remain high - Kaspersky

KUALA LUMPUR - Cyber threats targeting Malaysian users remain high, which may coincide with the rapid expansion of data centres in the country, according to the latest report from Kaspersky.

The global cybersecurity and digital privacy company said the cyberattacks were particularly concerning as Malaysia continues to invest heavily in data centre infrastructure.

According to Kaspersky Security Network (KSN), Kaspersky products detected 7.25 million different internet-borne cyberthreats on the computers of KSN participants in Malaysia from July to September 2024.

It said the concentration of sensitive data and critical infrastructure in these facilities makes them attractive targets for cybercriminals.

Currently, Malaysian data centres primarily serve domestic clients, including banks, telecommunications companies, and smaller international cloud providers.

Kaspersky managing director for Asia Pacific, Adrian Hia said the data centres are highly vulnerable to cyberattacks due to the vast amount of sensitive data that they store.

To safeguard information and maintain customer confidence, companies need to ensure robust cybersecurity measures such as advanced threat detection, intrusion prevention and data encryption are in place.

"Malaysia’s burgeoning data centre landscape presents both significant opportunities and challenges.

"While the country continues to thrive in this sector, there is still an urgent need to invest more in cybersecurity education and training,” he said in a statement recently.

By developing a skilled cybersecurity workforce, Malaysia can ensure the protection of its critical digital infrastructure and maintain its competitive edge in the global data centre market, he added.

Meanwhile, commenting on Budget 2025, Hia lauded the government’s allocation of RM30 million to combat scams and strengthen cybersecurity.

He added that the investment was a positive step towards addressing the rising cyberthreats highlighted in our recent report.

"We urge Malaysian government to continue to focus on developing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, such as prioritising upskilling the workforce, raising public awareness about online threats, and promoting collaboration between government, private sector, and cybersecurity experts,” he said.

By working together, he noted that Malaysia could truly build a more advanced digital ecosystem that foster trust and protects citizens and businesses from cyber criminals. - BERNAMA