Latest news with #AinuddinWahidAbdulWahab
![Combine encryption with ID checks to fight grooming, expert tells govt [WATCH]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fassets%2FNST-Logo%402x.png%3Fid%3Db37a17055cb1ffea01f5&w=48&q=75){kind=small}
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- New Straits Times
Combine encryption with ID checks to fight grooming, expert tells govt [WATCH]
KUALA LUMPUR: Encryption plays a critical role in securing online communication and protecting users—especially children—from threats such as grooming. Universiti Malaya forensic and cyber threat expert Professor Dr Ainuddin Wahid Abdul Wahab says that encryption can complement identity checks by providing another layer of protection. This follows what Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil proposed; to consider mandatory user identity verification in light of rising online sexual predatory cases. "Encryption is really the way we can secure our communication," Ainuddin said. He explained the concept using a simple analogy: much like parents who discreetly spell out words or speak in a language their children do not understand to keep their conversations private, encryption masks the content of digital exchanges—even if someone is aware that a communication is taking place. This technique, he said, ensures that while a third party may see that data is being transmitted, they will not be able to decipher it without the appropriate cryptographic keys. He also pointed to Malaysia's homegrown advancements in cryptography, particularly the In-MaLi algorithm developed locally and internationally recognised. This cryptographic method is supported by the Malaysian Society for Cryptology Research and agencies like CyberSecurity Malaysia. He uses the analogy of house keys and an added padlock to explain how Malaysia enhances existing global encryption tools. "It's like renting a house and being given two keys. You're not sure who else might have copies, so you add your own padlock—your own third key. That way, only you can access it." This "three-tier lock system", he said, reflects how Malaysia builds additional layers of encryption over standard platforms to better protect user data. These locally developed add-ons ensure that only authorised parties—such as national cyber defence teams—can decrypt certain information, if necessary, and respond to emerging threats. Ainuddin added that while identity verification can deter online predators, encryption remains essential to securing private communication, safeguarding children, and bolstering national cyber resilience. On Tuesday, Fahmi said his ministry is reviewing several key measures to enhance online safety, including enforcing user verification or identity authentication. The move, he added, is crucial to protect children from becoming victims of online sexual predators. He expressed concern over a recent case involving a social media influencer who allegedly sent obscene images to a 14-year-old girl. "I'm deeply troubled by what happened — an influencer contacting a 14-year-old with lewd messages. This is something happening within our society.
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Beyond the Headlines: Rafizi out, online predators and Asean 2025 [WATCH]
KUALA LUMPUR: In this latest episode of Beyond the Headlines, the show explores online safety and the government's proposal to introduce mandatory user identity verification. Earlier this week, the Communications Ministry said it is considering the move as a crucial step in protecting children from becoming victims of online sexual predators. This follows a disturbing case involving a social media influencer who allegedly sent obscene messages to a 14-year-old girl. Universiti Malaya forensic and cyber threat expert Professor Dr Ainuddin Wahid Abdul Wahab joins hosts Amalina Kamal and Hazween Hassan to explain how such a policy might work in practice—and what the government needs to weigh in order to balance safety regulations with freedom of speech. The show also discusses the resignation of two cabinet ministers: Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli as Economy Minister and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad as Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability. Rafizi, who had pledged to resign if he lost to Nurul Izzah Anwar in the PKR deputy presidency race last week, followed through on his promise. Nik Nazmi also stepped down after failing to retain his PKR vice-presidency and losing the Setiawangsa division chief post to Datuk Afdlin Shauki. In the second half of the episode, Beyond the Headlines recaps the recently concluded Asean and related summits hosted in Kuala Lumpur—an event that marked a milestone in regional multilateral relations. Catch the full discussion in episode 98 of Beyond the Headlines on the New Straits Times' YouTube channel, NSTOnline.
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Beyond the Headlines: Rafizi out, online predators and Asean 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: In this latest episode of Beyond the Headlines, the show explores online safety and the government's proposal to introduce mandatory user identity verification. Earlier this week, the Communications Ministry said it is considering the move as a crucial step in protecting children from becoming victims of online sexual predators. This follows a disturbing case involving a social media influencer who allegedly sent obscene messages to a 14-year-old girl. Universiti Malaya forensic and cyber threat expert Professor Dr Ainuddin Wahid Abdul Wahab joins hosts Amalina Kamal and Hazween Hassan to explain how such a policy might work in practice—and what the government needs to weigh in order to balance safety regulations with freedom of speech. The show also discusses the resignation of two cabinet ministers: Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli as Economy Minister and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad as Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability. Rafizi, who had pledged to resign if he lost to Nurul Izzah Anwar in the PKR deputy presidency race last week, followed through on his promise. Nik Nazmi also stepped down after failing to retain his PKR vice-presidency and losing the Setiawangsa division chief post to Datuk Afdlin Shauki. In the second half of the episode, Beyond the Headlines recaps the recently concluded Asean and related summits hosted in Kuala Lumpur—an event that marked a milestone in regional multilateral relations. Catch the full discussion in episode 98 of Beyond the Headlines on the New Straits Times' YouTube channel, NSTOnline.
