WITH the ubiquity of digital services and messaging apps, users tend to receive many messages, sometimes from anonymous sources.
Some messages seek help or financial assistance – but it is even more alarming when it purportedly comes from a high-profile public figure.
That said, is Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Dr Johari Abdul asking for financial assistance?
VERDICT:
FALSE
Johari warned the public to be aware of a scam misusing his name and mobile number to cheat victims into parting with the cash.
Johari said a syndicate has been sending WhatsApp messages to thousands of individuals requesting financial assistance with a promise of repayment.
He said the syndicate used his phone number and WhatsApp profile picture, making the messages appear as if it is from him.
Johari said he became aware of the scam on Tuesday (March 25) when he was overseas after receiving inquiries from acquaintances who received such messages.
"I was in Cambodia on an official visit at the time. When I returned that night, a friend who was on the same flight showed me the message," he told a press conference at the Parliament building on Thursday, Bernama reported.
Upon his return to Malaysia, he received numerous messages and calls regarding the matter, including from a victim who had transferred RM20,000, believing the message was genuine.
Johari urged victims to lodge a police report immediately and submit a copy of the report and transaction receipt to the Speaker's Office at the Malaysian Parliament for further action.
"I will also discuss this matter with the police and the MCMC (Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission), as this issue not only involves me but could happen to anyone.
"I was informed by the MCMC that the syndicate may have gained access to my phone information through a link sent via a digital invitation or other messages containing malware," he said.
For further inquiries, contact the Speaker's press secretary Shaira Amira Jamal Abdul Nasir at 03-2601 7462.
