April 13, 2025
Tech News
Malaysians are facing ongoing issues with scam ads on Facebook, despite the introduction of new social media regulations meant to protect users. Since January 2025, Meta has continued to allow ads impersonating prominent public figures and brands, undermining user safety.
The scam ads, which promote fake investment programs and enticing discounts on well-known products, often use manipulated URLs to mislead users. In addition, ads violating Malaysian regulations by promoting online gambling also persist on the platform, raising concerns about Meta’s commitment to user protection.
Worse still, Meta has not yet acquired the necessary licensing to operate in Malaysia under the new regulations. The only platforms compliant so far are TikTok and WeChat, while Meta and Google continue without licenses, risking fines and legal consequences.
In a contrasting move, Singapore has implemented the Online Criminal Harms Act, mandating verification for advertisers on its platforms. Meta has begun complying with this act, which aims to reduce scam ads by verifying advertisers against government records.
In an effort to expand its audiobook offerings, Spotify has announced an investment of approximately $1.1 million to increase the production of non-English audiobooks, starting with French and Dutch. This decision aims to cater to audiences in regions where the audiobook market remains underdeveloped.
Unlike the extensive physical book collections available in French and Dutch, the corresponding audiobook selections are limited, prompting Spotify to fill this gap and compete against larger players like Audible while managing production costs.
On the event horizon, StrictlyVC London is set to take place in May, bringing together founders, entrepreneurs, and investors for networking opportunities and insights into venture capital. Confirmed speakers include Nazo Moosa from Paladin Capital Group and Sonali De Rycker from Accel, notable figures in the investment space.
With expertise in cybersecurity and consumer internet sectors, Moosa and De Rycker promise to offer valuable perspectives during the gathering, which aims to foster connections and discussions among industry leaders.
Tech Explained
Online Gambling – This term refers to betting activities conducted through the internet, which can include casino games, sports betting, and poker. Such activities are often subject to strict regulations in various countries to mitigate gambling-related issues.
Audiobook – An audiobook is a recording of a text being read aloud, often intended for listening on devices such as smartphones or tablets. This format allows people to enjoy books while multitasking, contributing to its growing popularity.
Venture Capital – Venture capital is a type of private equity financing provided by investors to startup firms and small businesses with long-term growth potential. This investment can often be crucial for early-stage companies seeking to scale their operations.
Scam – A scam is a fraudulent scheme designed to con individuals out of money or valuables. Scammers often use deception to exploit victims, making it essential for platforms to implement robust measures to prevent such activities.
Artificial Intelligence – Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. This technology is increasingly being used in various industries, including content production, for tasks like automation and narration.
