Malaysian teenager arrested for creating, selling AI-generated deepfake images
A 16-year-old student in Johor, Malaysia was arrested in April 2025 for allegedly using AI tools to generate sexually explicit deepfake images of schoolmates and alumni, selling them on social media. Between 30 to 40 people were reportedly affected, including current students as young as 14 years old.
What happened
A 16-year-old boy in Johor was arrested on April 8 for allegedly using AI to create sexually explicit images of his schoolmates and school alumni. The suspect reportedly obtained photos of his victims from social media and used AI to edit them into pornographic content.
Police seized a phone believed to have been used to edit and upload the images. The suspect allegedly sold the deepfake images on social media for RM2 each and was remanded for four days starting April 9 to assist investigations.
Reported impact
Eight reports were lodged against the teenager. Deputy Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching stated that 30 to 40 schoolmates and school alumni were believed to be victims, including current students as young as 14 years old.
Multiple social media groups using the name 'Foon Yew' emerged circulating the deepfake images. Some victims may be unaware their images have been maliciously manipulated and distributed.
Index analysis
The case is being investigated under Section 292 of the Malaysian Penal Code for sale, distribution, or circulation of obscene materials, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act for sharing offensive and inappropriate content.
Deputy Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching directed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to work closely with police to expedite the investigation.
Governance controls
Deputy Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching's office offered assistance to victims, including legal advice and emotional support. She urged the public not to share photos of the victims on social media.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.