KUALA LUMPUR: A staggering 66,204 online scam cases were recorded in 2025, an 87% increase compared to 2024, says Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail (pic).
The Inspector-General of Police said it underscores the growing threat posed by cybercriminals despite ongoing enforcement and awareness efforts.
"The alarming rise in scam cases has been accompanied by escalating financial losses, with victims losing RM2.97bil last year, which is RM1.40bil more than in 2024," he said in his speech before launching a Combat Scam campaign on Monday (June 15).
The IGP said phone scams remained the most commonly reported scam category, with 28,388 cases recorded.
"However, non-existent investment scams resulted in the highest losses, amounting to RM1.47bil," he said.
Mohd Khalid said scam syndicates are becoming increasingly sophisticated, leveraging technology and digital platforms to target unsuspecting victims.
"These figures are not merely statistics. Behind every case is an individual or family that has suffered financial hardship and emotional distress," he added.
He said the rapid expansion of digital services and online transactions had created new opportunities for fraudsters, making it imperative for authorities, financial institutions and the public to work together in combating cybercrime.
He also commended the Combat Scam campaign as it aims to enhance cooperation between law enforcement and the banking sector while promoting greater financial literacy and cybersecurity awareness among Malaysians.
"The fight against scams cannot be left solely to enforcement agencies. It requires the collective commitment of banks, government agencies and the public," he said.
Mohd Khalid also urged the public to remain vigilant when conducting online transactions and to verify information through official channels before responding to requests involving money or personal information.
