Cybersecurity firm Proofpoint Inc revealed that human error is a critical factor in most cyberattacks, with a staggering 90% of reported cases involving mistakes by individuals. This information was shared during a media roundtable at the Four Seasons Hotel, where George Lee, senior vice-president for the Asia-Pacific and Japan regions, discussed the findings from Malaysia’s Cyber Security Response Centre. As of September 2025, there has been a more than 20% year-on-year increase in cyberattacks, with nearly half stemming from phishing attempts.
Lee emphasized the growing threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI), particularly as it enhances phishing techniques. He noted that advancements in AI allow scammers to craft communications that mimic human interactions, complicating detection efforts. Furthermore, some cyberattacks are now leveraging AI tools to manipulate email summaries, embedding instructions that evade human recognition.
In a related initiative, Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) and Ericsson announced a new feature enhancing their 5G network to identify illegal transmitters responsible for sending scam messages to mobile users. This development, revealed at the 2026 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, marks a significant step in combating fraudulent activities in the telecommunications sector.