Malaysia eyes action vs hackers from both sides in cyberwar over Sabah

From GMA News (Mar 18): Malaysia eyes action vs hackers from both sides in cyberwar over Sabah

Malaysian authorities may go after hackers from both sides after a recent cyberwar that stemmed from clashes in Sabah between Malaysian security forces and followers of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III affected some 200 websites.

This was the threat made by Malaysia's National Security Council, which said at least 36 Malaysian websites had been defaced, according to a Sunday report by Malaysia's The Star Online.

“In Malaysia, cyber hacking is a criminal offense against the laws of the country, irrespective of whether it has been committed by citizens or by foreigners,” said NSC secretary Datuk Mohamed Thajudeen Abdul Wahab.

Mohamed noted the cyberwar between Philippine and Malaysia hackers lasted from March 1 to 4, coinciding with deadly clashes between Malaysian security forces and Kiram's followers.

The Star online report said Section 4 of Malaysia's Computer Crimes Act of 1997 carries a fine of up to RM150,000 (P1.951 million), and/or imprisonment of up to 10 years.

Armed clashes on March 1 and 2 prompted Malaysia to launch an offensive against Kiram's followers on March 5.

The Star Online's report said Malaysian hackers first attacked Filipino government and private websites, after which Filipino hackers responded in kind.

It said up to 200 websites from both countries were defaced before hackers called a truce.

Mohamed said 36 "local private" websites were defaced but would not say how many government sites were affected.

“None of these critical websites suffered any major problem,” he said.

Mohamed also admitted it may not be easy to pinpoint who the attackers were, even as he confirmed neither government was involved.

He claimed the Philippine side "suffered a bigger problem compared to the Malaysian side.”

Mohamed also said it will be up to the Malaysian Attorney-General to act against the hackers, even as he said getting at the Filipino hackers will need cooperation from the Philippine side.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/299766/news/world/malaysia-eyes-action-vs-hackers-from-both-sides-in-cyberwar-over-sabah