Portable fake BTS devices used by scammers are evading detection, with authorities relying on public tip-offs to locate syndicates.

KUALA LUMPUR: The increasing use of portable Fake Base Transceiver Station devices is creating a major hurdle for authorities battling SMS scam syndicates.

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the high portability of these devices allows syndicates to operate freely and evade detection.

She explained that the technology bypasses mobile network security to send fraudulent messages and malicious links to nearby users.

“Because these devices can be taken anywhere, enforcement action relies heavily on public tip-offs and complaints to help us identify the syndicates’ exact locations,” she told the Dewan Negara.

She was responding to a question on measures against Fake BTS syndicates and SIM card misuse for digital fraud.

Teo said a series of joint MCMC and police operations since September 2024 have crippled syndicates in locations like Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru.

She stressed that using or possessing unauthorised communication equipment is an offence under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

The offence carries a fine of up to RM1 million or imprisonment of up to 10 years.

Meanwhile, a new SIM card registration standard operating procedure will take effect on February 27 to prevent line misuse.

This measure includes higher fines for non-compliant telcos, aiming to safeguard the country’s digital ecosystem.

 The Sun Malaysia