MCMC calls on TikTok and Meta for explanations over platform misuse

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has called on TikTok and Meta to provide explanations regarding how their platforms are being used, following reports of misuse that could put users at risk.

On 7 November, MCMC responded to media reports suggesting that TikTok had been used to recruit individuals for drug smuggling activities abroad. The commission has requested a formal explanation from TikTok on its content monitoring and enforcement processes, especially when it comes to posts or advertisements that may be criminal in nature, including false job offers that could exploit users.

“These offers, often involving the delivery of goods or luggage overseas, are frequently used by syndicates to exploit victims as ‘drug mules,’” MCMC warned. The commission reminded the public to exercise caution with job offers online. Under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, misuse of digital platforms to recruit or exploit users is a serious offence. Section 263(1) also makes platform licensees responsible for ensuring their networks or services are not used to break the law.

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A day later, on 8 November, MCMC turned its attention to Meta following a Reuters report alleging that the social media giant profited from ads linked to scams, online gambling, and other illegal activities. Based on documents sighted by Reuters, Meta reportedly earned around 10% of its 2024 revenue from those ads, coming up to about US$16 billion (RM75.8 billion). The news report also stated that Meta’s social media platforms are reportedly hosting around 15 billion scam-related ads daily, ranging from fraudulent investment schemes and fake online stores to illegal gambling and the sale of unapproved medical products.

MCMC has asked Meta to provide details on the accuracy of the claims and confirmed that it will investigate the matter further. If substantiated, such activity could be considered a breach of public trust and national laws. The regulator also noted that it has been in discussions with Meta prior to the news report, highlighting concerns over the volume of content removal requests related to scam and online gambling advertisements.

Between 1 August and 4 November 2025, MCMC submitted 157,208 requests for the removal of advertisements tied to law-breaking activities and 44,922 requests specifically targeting scam ads. The high number of requests submitted to Meta, compared to other platforms, was a key point of discussion during these sessions.

Taken together, the requests to both TikTok and Meta underline MCMC’s ongoing effort to ensure that social media platforms are accountable for how their services are used in Malaysia. The commission’s approach emphasizes collaboration and transparency, encouraging platforms to implement stronger safeguards and make users aware of potential risks.

While the investigations are underway, MCMC has also issued reminders for the public to remain vigilant when engaging with digital platforms. Job offers, online competitions, or advertisements that seem too good to be true should be treated with caution. By raising awareness and seeking clarity from the platforms themselves, MCMC aims to create a safer online environment for users across Malaysia.

Just two weeks ago, the MCMC secured a legal win in its ongoing case against Telegram, with the Kuala Lumpur High Court granting an Erinfjord Injunction (a court order to maintain the status quo pending an appeal) to prohibit the publication of harmful content on the platform.

The ruling includes an order to close two Telegram channels, Edisi Siasat and Edisi Khas, along with any other accounts of similar nature or operation. The decision comes as MCMC continues its efforts to curb the spread of false, misleading, and inflammatory content on social platforms in Malaysia, the commission said in a statement.

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