Cover image via Canva TeamsFollow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
This Spotlight is sponsored by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
Following reports by Malaysians that their WhatsApp accounts had been hacked, blocked, or inaccessible, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is investigating the complaints
MCMC said it had referred the relevant cases to Meta, WhatsApp's parent company, for clarification and appropriate action.
In a statement on Friday, 25 September, the commission clarified that compromised accounts and blocked accounts are two separate issues.
According to MCMC, accounts taken over by others may be misused for scams, spam, or activities that violate WhatsApp's terms of service. This may subsequently result in the accounts being blocked by the platform.
What should you do if your WhatsApp account is affected?
MCMC reminded WhatsApp users not to share their verification codes or security PINs with anyone, as these could be used to take over their accounts.
Users should also use WhatsApp's official channels if their accounts have been blocked or compromised.
If the issue remains unresolved through WhatsApp's official channels, users can lodge a complaint with MCMC for further action and referral to Meta
Do note that the commission's role is to investigate complaints and engage with the platform. The account blocks are imposed by WhatsApp, not by MCMC or the government.
MCMC said it would continue monitoring the situation and engaging with Meta to safeguard users' interests.
Got some cool brand news to share?
Take a look at all of our Spotlight stories to date here.
