Maxis wins technology award for pioneering initiative to combat fake BTS scams

Its Fake BTS Detection Dashboard monitored and identified network anomalies, enhancing overall security.

Maxis Berhad (Maxis) has won the Digital - Telecommunications category at the Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards 2026 for its Fake BTS Detection Dashboard. The platform detects threats from unauthorised Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), commonly known as fake BTS, providing critical information that supports regulatory action.

Fraudsters deploy this illegal equipment to mimic legitimate network towers, tricking nearby mobile devices into connecting to them. This can potentially expose users to scam SMS and localised service disruptions.

To address these threats, the fake BTS dashboard integrates advanced data analytics to continuously monitor and identify network anomalies. Developed in-house, the platform is highly adaptable, ensuring it can counter new and evolving fraudulent tactics.

This enables a clearer distinction between routine network issues and malicious activity, whilst supporting regulators and Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) in taking further action.

The annual Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards recognises companies that demonstrate technological innovation and digital transformation in Malaysia. The 2026 awards were presented at a ceremony held in Kuala Lumpur on 2 April 2026.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) commends Maxis for its efforts in curbing fake BTS scams. This recognition highlights the importance of industry-led innovation in addressing emerging threats. Enhanced network monitoring capabilities support the timely identification of illegal transmissions, which enables effective enforcement action and strengthens protection for Malaysians against evolving scam risks.

Yap Chee Sun, Chief Network Officer of Maxis, said, "As the threat landscape shifts, so must our approach to network security. This in-house capability strengthens our ability to respond swiftly and support enforcement action by the MCMC and the authorities. We are honoured by this recognition, which reinforces our commitment to deliver a fast, reliable, and secure network where our customers can stay connected with greater confidence."

This deployment complements Maxis' broader initiatives to enhance overall network security by building on its existing network safeguards. Maxis will continue to work closely with enforcement authorities, in line with the national effort to combat digital fraud.

The Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards, presented by Asian Business Review, recognises exceptional companies at the forefront of technological innovation and digital transformation, playing a pivotal role in driving Malaysia's rapidly growing economy to greater heights.

The Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards is presented by Asian Business Review Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2027 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's outstanding contributions in pursuit of technological innovation, please contact Danica Avila (+65) 3158 1386 or [email protected].