JOHOR BARU: A 65-year-old woman has lost RM380,000 after falling for a Macau scam here.
Johor Baru South OCPD Asst Comm Raub Selamat said the victim lodged a police report on Monday (Oct 28) night.
“The scam started when the victim received a call from an individual posing as an officer from a local bank, informing her of an alleged outstanding balance on a credit card registered in her name.
“The victim denied having any such card, but the caller alleged that someone had opened the credit card account under her name.
“The call was then transferred to another suspect claiming to be an officer from Bank Negara Malaysia, who advised the victim to transfer all her funds to a 'secure' account as part of an investigation,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (Oct 29).
ACP Raub added that the victim was assured her money would be returned once the investigation was concluded.
“On Oct 18 and 19, the victim made 49 transactions, transferring a total of RM380,000 to six different accounts.
“However, after the transfers, the scammer blocked her number, making any further contact impossible,” he said.
ACP Raub urged members of the public to remain vigilant against scam calls.
“These scammers pose as officials from government agencies such as the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Bank Negara, the judiciary, or financial institutions.
“Victims are often falsely accused of financial irregularities and pressured into sharing personal and financial information,” he added.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code, covering cheating, which carries a sentence of imprisonment from one to 10 years, including whipping and a fine, upon conviction.
ACP Raub urged the public to exercise caution especially when handling online transactions.
“They can verify phone numbers and bank accounts through the Semak Mule online application provided by the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID).
“The public is also encouraged to follow CCID’s social media accounts, including Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, to stay informed about the latest commercial crime tactics,” he said.
Anyone who has fallen victim to scams is advised to contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) on 997 for immediate action to prevent further outflow of funds from scam-related accounts.
