MCMC probes claims Claude AI targeted Malaysian voters, but says issue outside its mandate

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 11 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is investigating allegations that Anthropic's Claude AI platform was utilized in a commercial election manipulation effort aimed at Malaysian voters. While MCMC took the US AI company's latest report seriously, it emphasized that the described activities fell outside its scope and mandate. The commission stated that it was not involved in any of the activities or dealings mentioned in the report.

Anthropic reportedly disclosed that it had identified and removed an account associated with a network of roughly 1,000 fake accounts on X, a fake news website, as well as various fabricated dossiers or intelligence files. In response, MCMC said it was seeking additional information and clarification from relevant parties to verify the facts and understand the context of the claims.

Based on the information and evidence gathered, MCMC will determine the appropriate follow-up action within its jurisdiction, which may involve collaborating with the relevant authorities. The commission reiterated that safeguarding the public from online harm and maintaining a secure and trustworthy online environment remained its primary responsibilities.