Twitter has not commented on the report, which was first posted about on social media on Dec 24, nor responded to inquiries about the breach since that date.

The communications minister also expresses hope for closer cooperation with Bank Negara and the police to overcome online fraud.

Fahmi Fadzil says his ministry is looking at possible immediate solutions to the issue.

Since Singapore Telecommunications Ltd-owned Optus disclosed last month the theft of about 10 million customer records, the country's biggest companies and government bodies have been on high alert for repeat attacks.

The bill's passage comes after a series of data leaks and probes into alleged breaches at government firms and institutions in Indonesia.

From using strong passwords to avoiding public WiFi networks, Malaysians are advised to up their game against scammers.

It was not immediately clear who was responsible for the attack – or the effects of it.

Britain has proposed a landmark online safety law to punish abuses such as child pornography, racism and violence against women, but a joint committee from both houses of parliament says it should include paid-for adverts.

The FBI says it is an 'ongoing situation'.

The US has convened some 30 countries – with the notable exception of Russia – to boost cooperation in fighting the costly and disruptive attacks that have boomed around the world.

The hacked firm has threatened police involvement, but also offered the hackers the chance to 'work out a solution'.

Supermarkets and other large end-users like the McDonald's burger network will be immediately impacted.