A syndicate behind fraudulent SMS blasts using illegal fake Base Transceiver Station (BTS) devices has been crippled under Op Pancing, a joint operation by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
MCMC said intelligence work and public tip-offs led to the arrest of a man operating a fake BTS from a vehicle near a Kuala Lumpur shopping mall. The device was found in active mode, transmitting phishing and gambling-related SMS messages to unsuspecting recipients.
A subsequent raid on a house in Kota Kemuning uncovered vehicles, communication gear and other items linked to the operation. Authorities seized 45 items worth about RM100,000, while another individual was called in to assist investigations.
Initial probes revealed the syndicate’s new tactic of modifying fake BTS devices for mobile use, making detection harder.
The case is being investigated under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which carries penalties of up to RM1 million in fines or 10 years’ jail, and the Communications and Multimedia (Spectrum) Regulations 2000, which provides for up to RM300,000 in fines or three years’ imprisonment.
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