Be wary of fake calls from ‘the authorities’, Sabahans told

KOTA KINABALU: There's been an increase in fake calls from scammers and the public here should be on their guard, says Sabah West Coast Wise Consumers Association president David Chan.

Chan urged for extra caution especially when getting calls from people claiming to be with the police, Customs Department or Inland Revenue Board (LHDN).

He said the public needs to understand that officers involved in real cases would get those involved to go straight to the police station or department office.

Scammers on the other hand, he noted, would call and try to scare their victims into believing that they have tax arrears, had their names used for bank loans or had their bank accounts used for drug activities or money laundering.

"Never believe a call like this, instead end the conversation and call the nearest police station or the relevant bank," he urged.

He said no party could request bank account details, pin numbers and or any banking-related information from the public via phone calls or text messages.

Chan added that due to the increase in online sales and purchases, consumers should identify trusted merchants on online platforms before finalising any purchase.

He said among the online buying and selling scams, include consumers receiving products different from those advertised or not receiving goods after making payments.

Chan said consumers should know their rights and to take legal action against perpetrators, including bringing their cases to the Consumers’ Tribunal.

He also said traders should adopt ethical business practices.