Embracing AI to Combat Cybercrime: Ahsmon’s Urgent Appeal
Kuching Police Chief Stresses the Need for Advanced Training
KUCHING – In a recent assembly held at the district police headquarters, Kuching’s police chief, ACP Ahsmon Bajah, issued a critical call to action for local law enforcement officers. He emphasized the necessity of acquiring advanced skills and knowledge to combat the growing threats posed by cybercrime, particularly those involving artificial intelligence (AI).
The Evolution of Cybercrime and the Role of AI
The New Frontier in Cybercrime
With the rapid advancement of technology, criminals have found new avenues to exploit, thanks to sophisticated tools and platforms. AI has become a game-changer, enabling a range of malicious activities from slander and defamation to complex schemes aimed at undermining public figures and institutions.
In his address, Ahsmon highlighted how AI’s capabilities have expanded beyond traditional cybercrime tactics. “As outlined in the Royal Malaysia Police’s (PDRM) policy, it is essential for all officers to stay updated on emerging issues, especially those related to AI,” he stated. He stressed that continuous learning and skill enhancement are pivotal in staying ahead of technologically adept criminals.
The Shift from Human to AI-Powered Crime
Previously, cybercriminals relied on social media to advertise fraudulent services and conduct scams. However, AI’s emergence introduces a new layer of complexity, allowing for autonomous operations that are harder to detect and combat. “Now, AI can operate without human intervention, posing a novel challenge for our forces,” Ahsmon noted.
Addressing Cybercrime Through Specialized Divisions
The Role of the Commercial Crime Investigation Division (CCID)
The CCID is tasked with handling scams, including investment scams that leverage AI to deceive victims. This division plays a crucial role in identifying and dismantling AI-driven fraud operations. The specialized focus of CCID on these new-age crimes reflects the shifting landscape of cyber threats.
The Focus of the Criminal Investigation Division (CID)
On the other hand, the CID is responsible for addressing cybercrime-related threats and extortion. This division is essential in managing more severe criminal activities that involve AI and other advanced technologies.
Cyberbullying: An Ongoing Concern
Despite the advanced nature of cybercrimes involving AI, Ahsmon reported that there were no recorded cases of cyberbullying in Kuching for the past year. This absence of reported incidents may suggest that current measures are effective or that the crimes are not being reported adequately.
Recognizing Excellence: Service Awards Presented
During the assembly, Ahsmon also took the opportunity to acknowledge and reward exceptional service. Eighty officers and members were honored with excellent service awards, recognizing their dedication and contributions to maintaining public safety.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Ahsmon’s remarks underline the urgency for police officers to equip themselves with the latest knowledge and skills in dealing with AI-driven cybercrimes. As technology continues to evolve, so too must the strategies and expertise of law enforcement. By embracing continuous learning and technological advancements, the Kuching police are better positioned to tackle the sophisticated challenges of modern cybercrime.
