13/10/2025

LYFE MONDAY | OCT 13, 2025

23 Scam ads on trusted platforms draining Malaysians of millions

M ALAYSIANS faced more than 3.5 million Internet-borne threats between April and June 2025 – over 39,000 attacks every day, according to Kaspersky Security Network. One alarming tactic involves threat actors exploiting advertising features on popular platforms Malaysians use daily, while luring victims into fake websites, fraudulent apps or malicious downloads. Media reports of scam advertisements in the second quarter of 2025 show losses of more than RM4 million, with most disguised as counterfeit financial schemes, fraudulent legal services, fake job offers and instant loan scams. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has reported 121 cases of scam advertisements impersonating the identities of high-profile individuals. As of July 15, the regulator has removed 46,817 scam-related content on social media platforms to curb online scam activity. While enforcement efforts are ongoing, longer-term safeguards are also being put in place. Malaysia’s commitment to a safer digital environment is reflected in the Online Safety Act 2024, with additional legislation now being drafted to require advertiser verification and responsible ad publishing by platforms. In Budget 2026, the battle against scam advertisements is part of the Ű BY AMEEN HAZIZI vivo Malaysia unveiled the vivo V60 Lite 5G at a lively launch event in Kuala Lumpur last week, highlighting the brand’s latest mid-range contender that blends durability, photography innovation and all-day entertainment. The event drew media and tech creators who were invited to experience hands-on demonstrations showcasing the phone’s toughness and performance. From paintball impact tests and hammer strikes to drop simulations on rocks, the demonstrations underlined the V60 Lite’s SGS five-star drop resistance and military-grade certification. Adding to the spectacle, vivo recreated real-world challenges under controlled conditions, from office survival set-ups to outdoor drop tests, illustrating how the phone’s shield glass design and BlueVolt2 6,500mAh battery are engineered for long-term reliability. Visitors were also treated to a comparison display that highlighted the device’s 6.77-inch 120Hz amoled screen, capable of 3,000-nit peak brightness and HDR10+ support. A spotlight test mimicked harsh sunlight to demonstrate visibility under outdoor conditions, addressing a common user frustration among mobile users in Malaysia’s bright weather. Meanwhile, the dual stereo speakers amplified 400% volume output in a live sound test, proving the phone’s ability to maintain clear audio even in noisy environments. Equipped with the new MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo chipset, the V60 Lite 5G supports 12GB RAM with an additional 12GB extended RAM and 512GB storage. The chipset ensures smoother gaming and multitasking, while AI SuperLink keeps connections stable even in weak network areas.

o Victims lose over RM4m to job offers, instant loans, legal services in second quarter of 2025

country’s broader push to secure its digital economy. “Scam advertisements are not random. What we are seeing in Malaysia is part of a broader regional trend where cybercriminals take advantage of the trust people have in online platforms. Every scam that slips through is not just a personal loss, it chips away at confidence in going online, whether for daily life or business. As cybercrime tactics evolve, technology, enforcement and public awareness must keep pace,” said Kaspersky managing director for Asia Pacific Adrian Hia. To stay safe from scam advertisements: 0 Be cautious of advertisements on social media and search platforms. Always verify the source before clicking. 0 A comprehensive security solution can help detect and block

phishing attempts, malicious sites, unsafe downloads and suspicious activity in real-time. 0 Use Semak Mule to verify suspicious bank accounts, phone numbers and company names. Its database records details flagged in scam cases and allows the public to check before making transactions. 0 If you come across investment ads online, use only apps approved by the Securities Commission (SC) and verify individuals or entities with SC’s Investment Checker. 0 Stay alert to deepfakes and fake endorsements. Videos and images of well-known personalities can be faked easily to give scam advertisements credibility. 0 If you fall victim to a scam, contact the National Scam Response Centre at 997 to initiate action to block the suspect’s account and to prevent further losses.

Scammers are exploiting advertising features on popular platforms to lure victims into fake websites, fraudulent apps or malicious downloads.

vivo V60 Lite 5G launches in Malaysia from RM1,199

the feature enhanced portrait shots with balanced tones and soft skin detail. The 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor captured attention for its sharpness and low-light capability, while the AI Four-Season Portrait mode added creativity by transforming photo backdrops to reflect spring, summer, autumn or winter atmospheres. Beyond imaging, the phone includes AI tools such as AI smart call assistant, AI transcript assist and Google Gemini integration, aimed at improving day-to-day convenience for users managing work, communication and productivity tasks on the go. The vivo V60 Lite 5G is priced in Malaysia at RM1,199 for the 8GB RAM + 256GB model and RM1,499 for the 12GB RAM + 512GB variant. Those who pre-order the vivo V60 Lite 5G will receive complimentary gifts worth up to RM1,199, which include a pair of vivo Buds, a Holiday Vibes gift set and extended warranty coverage. Customers can also enjoy flexible instalment plans through SPayLater and Grab PayLater, making it easier to own the new device.

vivo Malaysia CEO Mike Xu (centre) and VIPs launching the V60 Lite 5G last week.

transparent vertical camera module that gives it a refined, flagship-like aesthetic. The colour palette features three distinct finishes: Titanium Blue, Elegant Black and Pop Pink. The Pop Pink variant is inspired by youthful optimism and features a subtle iridescent shimmer that changes under light, while Titanium Blue reflects calm sophistication and Elegant Black adds understated luxury.

The large 6,500mAh battery paired with 90W FlashCharge provides rapid top-ups, allowing up to 12 hours of continuous gaming or 27.5 hours of video playback on a single charge. vivo also highlighted a five-year battery health guarantee, underscoring the model’s long-term efficiency and safety. On the design front, the V60 Lite 5G sports a slim flat-screen build and a

Photography took centre stage with demonstrations of the AI Master Aura Light system, which automatically detects ambient lighting and adjusts colour temperature for natural and well-lit portraits. In a dimly lit setup, attendees saw firsthand how

The toughest lite for non-stop fun, stunning night shots and zero worries.

Internet personality Arwind Kumar testing the V60 Lite’s durability with a hammer.