KUALA LUMPUR: Immigration officers have uncovered a syndicate operating a fake website offering electronic visas (eVisa) for foreigners entering Malaysia, believed to have generated millions since 2022.
Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said the syndicate allegedly targeted foreigners who needed visas before travelling to Malaysia.
"Investigations revealed that the syndicate charged applicants between RM300 and RM500, two to three times the official eVisa fee.
"A 32-year-old Bangladeshi woman holding a social visit pass was arrested in connection with the case.
"Checks showed she had frequently entered Malaysia over the past three years. Her Malaysian husband has been issued a notice to assist with investigations," he said in a statement on Sunday (Aug 31).
He stated preliminary findings showed the bogus website had processed 52,672 applications since it began operations in 2022.
"The syndicate’s modus operandi was to mimic the official eVisa Malaysia portal. Applicants were offered two categories: ‘regular visa’ processed within three to five working days and an 'urgent visa' promising approval within two to three days,” he said.
However, after payment was made, applicants were told via the fake portal that their applications had been rejected, Zakaria said.
"Those who sought clarification through the website’s live chat service were allegedly threatened, including being warned their passports would be blacklisted.
"The woman is being investigated under Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963 and is currently held at the Immigration Department headquarters in Putrajaya," he added.
He stressed that the existence of such fraudulent websites tarnishes the department’s image and undermines public trust.
"The department remains committed to strengthening enforcement efforts to curb such abuses and safeguard national security and integrity," he said.
