Police investigating AI pornography threats against politicians from multiple angles

THE Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is continuing its investigation into a series of blackmail attempts involving AI-generated pornographic material that has been used to threaten several government representatives.

Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail confirmed that the case remains open and said investigators are considering multiple possible motives, including political intimidation, cyber extortion and personal malice.

“We have received 10 complaints related to this issue, but only four victims have come forward to lodge formal police reports,” he told a press conference at the Police Training Centre (PULAPOL) in Kuala Lumpur.

He noted that the anonymity enabled by artificial intelligence and digital communication platforms makes identifying the perpetrators particularly challenging.

On 14 September, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil disclosed that at least nine government MPs and officials had received threatening emails. Each contained screenshots from an alleged AI-generated lewd video and demanded a payment of US\$100,000 (approximately RM470,000) to prevent public disclosure.

Among those named were Pandan MP Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, Subang MP Wong Chen, Sungai Petani MP Dr Taufiq Johari, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli, and several state assembly representatives.

Asked whether the incidents could be politically motivated, Khalid said investigations are still ongoing: “Cases like these often involve individuals seeking to exploit others for financial gain or other purposes. We are examining every possibility.”

He added that the police are working closely with relevant agencies to ensure the matter is addressed thoroughly and that abuse of technology and communications for blackmail or political harassment will not be tolerated. - September 17, 2025