ALOR GAJAH: A total of 666 online scam cases involving losses of about RM19.52mil were reported in Melaka from Jan 1 to Sunday (April 20).
State science, technology, innovation and digital communications committee chairman Datuk Fairul Nizam Roslan said 157 cases were recorded by the National Scam Response Centre and 509 by the police.
He said the scams involved various tactics, including online purchases, love scams and non-existent investments, with victims ranging from single mothers and civil servants to private sector employees.
"During the same period, 399 arrests were made and 231 charges filed.
"Most victims were aged 25 to 40. Women were mainly targeted in love scams and online shopping fraud, while men fell victim to fake investments," he said on Sunday night.
Fairul Nizam, who is also Rembia state constituency coordinator, was met at the constituency's Aidilfitri open house attended by over 5,000 visitors.
He added that nine cases were reported on Sunday alone, with eight in Melaka Tengah and one in Alor Gajah, involving losses of over RM400,000.
The state government, he said, is stepping up efforts to combat online fraud through talks, exhibitions and the establishment of the Online Gambling, Fraud and Cybercrime Task Force to raise public awareness. - Bernama
