SKMM ADVISES MALAYSIAN WEBSITE OWNERS TO UPDATE AND SECURE THEIR WEBSITES FROM HACKER ATTACKS

2 September 2009, Cyberjaya – In response to media reports on the incidences of Malaysia websites being compromised by hackers, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) advises Malaysian website owners to update and secure their website application and servers to the latest patches and service packs to fix various vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers to compromise their websites.

The hacking incidence was first detected on 31 August 2009 and has since then affected 125 websites, where the hackers had inserted a webpage through known vulnerabilities on the websites, announcing that they have compromised those websites.

SKMM have been monitoring the situation through the SKMM Network Security Center (SNSC) and various postings made by the hackers on related blogs, forums and social networking websites.

Based on the reports from the owners of the compromised websites, there is no further evidence to suggest that there were other damaging activities other than the injected webpage. SKMM have worked with them to update their websites with the latest patch and service packs to fix the vulnerabilities and remove the injected webpage. The website owners have been advised to contact SKMM if they detect further hacking activities on their websites.

Notes to Editor:

1. If your organization wishes to include a quote from Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) in an article or news item, kindly attribute the quote to our organization (SKMM) rather than an officer of the organization, unless a designated spokesperson from SKMM is specified in the Press Release or reply to Press.

About Malaysia Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM)
The primary role of SKMM is to implement and promote the Government’s national policy objectives for the communications and multimedia sector. SKMM is also charged with overseeing the new regulatory framework for the converging industries of telecommunications, broadcasting and on-line activities, in accordance with the national policy objectives set out in the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA), as well as postal services and digital certifications. The CMA provides that SKMM undertakes a policy implementation role, while policy decision-making is vested with the Minister. The Minister may also give policy direction to the Commission. For more information visit www.skmm.gov.my

For media clarification, please contact:
Zeti Marziana Muhamed
Director, Corporate Communications Department
Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission

Wan Seri Rahayu Wan Mohd Said