AI Deepfake Abuse in Malaysia: Nearly 7,000 Harmful Content Takedowns Since 2024

Authorities warn rising misuse of AI tools increasingly targets women online

Malaysia is facing a growing challenge from the misuse of artificial intelligence technologies, with thousands of harmful online posts involving deepfakes and other AI-generated content removed over the past two years.

Thousands of Harmful Posts Removed

Nearly 7,000 pieces of inappropriate online content linked to artificial intelligence misuse have been removed in Malaysia since 2024.

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission submitted 6,987 takedown requests between Jan 1, 2024 and March 1, 2026.

Majority of Content Successfully Removed

Out of the total requests, 6,657 posts, or about 95 percent, were successfully taken down by social media platforms.

Authorities recorded 817 removals in 2024, followed by a sharp increase to 3,389 in 2025 and another 2,451 pieces removed by early March 2026.

Women Increasingly Targeted by Deepfakes

Teo warned that the growing misuse of deepfake technology is increasingly targeting women online.

She said the trend is concerning as AI tools are being used to produce inappropriate and exploitative content that harms women’s safety and dignity.

Stronger Regulation Under New Law

Malaysia will begin enforcing stronger digital protections under the Online Safety Act 2025 this year.

The framework aims to hold online platforms accountable and ensure faster removal of harmful content, particularly those involving harassment, exploitation and abuse.

AI Amplifying Online Violence

Teo also highlighted how artificial intelligence is accelerating technology-facilitated violence against women.

Studies show that between 16 and 58 percent of women globally have experienced some form of online abuse, with AI tools creating new forms of harassment and amplifying existing threats.

As artificial intelligence becomes more accessible, Malaysia faces growing challenges in preventing its misuse for harmful online activities. Authorities are strengthening regulations and enforcement mechanisms to protect users, particularly women and children, while encouraging responsible and ethical use of emerging technologies.

Sources: Malay Mail (2026) , The Sun (2026)

Keywords: Teo Nie Ching AI Warning, Malaysia Deepfake Content Removal, Online Safety Act 2025, MCMC Enforcement Malaysia, AI Abuse Women Online