KUALA LUMPUR: The public has been urged to remain vigilant against love scam syndicates targeting victims through social media, online communication platforms and dating applications.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Comm Datuk Fadil Marsus said falling victim to such scams could have devastating consequences, not only for those involved but also their families and loved ones.
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He said what appeared to be happiness could turn into tragedy in an instant for deceived victims.
“Suspects typically use convincing identities and profiles to build relationships and gain the trust of victims before manipulating their emotions.
“Requests for money are usually made under various pretexts, including emergencies, medical treatment, travel, business matters or financial difficulties.
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“In some cases, suspects may promise a more serious relationship or marriage to convince victims to hand over money,” he said when contacted on Wednesday (Sept 2).
Comm Fadil was speaking following allegations of elements of a love scam and illegal investment in the case involving the deaths of four family members at Desa Parkcity, Kuala Lumpur, on Aug 27.
In the incident, a 48-year-old man was believed to have fallen from a residential building along Persiaran Residen, Desa Parkcity.
Police subsequently found three other victims inside the residence – his 47-year-old wife and their two children, a nine-year-old girl and a seven-year-old boy.
Police had previously said the three victims had suffered severe injuries to their necks. A knife was also found inside the residential unit.
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The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code (Punishment for murder).
Comm Fadil advised the public not to easily trust acquaintances met through social media, and to verify their identities before developing relationships or conducting transactions.
He also urged people not to hand over money to acquaintances or partners whom they had never met, or share banking information such as one-time passwords (OTPs), transaction authorisation codes (TACs), PINs, passwords or bank account details.
Members of the public can also check suspicious bank account numbers or telephone numbers through the SemakMule portal before carrying out any transactions.
