KUCHING, Oct 11: A retired civil servant, in his early 70s, lost nearly RM700,000 to an online investment scam involving the “Yomaex” mobile application.
Sarawak Commissioner of Police Dato Mohd Azman Ahmad Sapri confimed that the victim from Kuching had lodged a police report today.
The victim initially fell for an investment advertisement on Facebook and subsequently initiated communication with a man using the alias ‘Cheong Sheng Hee’ via WhatsApp, using the mobile number 011-39016283, in February this year.
Following this, the victim was added to a WhatsApp group named “Group 2 (A walk in the woods)” and began attending online classes related to crypto and Bitcoin trading using the Yomaex application on a nightly basis.
“The victim then made two transactions totalling RM697,000 to a bank account associated with a company in two different banks in Kuching in early October this year.
“The purpose for the payment was to facilitate the victim to withdraw investment profits from crypto and Bitcoin trading through the Yomaex app, amounting USDT 7,523,671.01,” Mohd Azman disclosed in a press statement today.
The victim only became aware of the scam when he failed to withdraw his profits and was even requested to make an additional payment of RM355,000.
Mohd Azman said this case is now under investigation pursuant to Section 420 of the Penal Code, which deals with cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
If convicted, the offender faces imprisonment of between one year and 10 years, and whipping. The offender is also liable to a fine.
Mohd Azman advised members of the public to make investments only on valid platforms registered with Bank Negara Malaysia and Securities Commission Malaysia.
Additionally, the public is advised to seek financial advice from registered agents before making any investments.
To avoid falling prey to scams, individuals are urged not to click on unfamiliar links or download unknown APK files.
Furthermore, it is essential not to trust investment opportunities promising high returns in a short period.
“Avoid transferring money to bank accounts unrelated to the investment and conduct thorough checks on company names and online portals,” Mohd Azman urged.
To verify permitted and approved entities, refer to www.bnm.gov.my or contact Bank Negara Malaysia at 1-300-88-5465, as well as check with www.sc.com.my or contact the Malaysia Security Commission at 603-62048999.
In the event of becoming a victim of a cybercrime such as phone scams, love scams, e-commerce scams, or fake loans, individuals can reach out to the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997. If a monetary transaction has been recently completed through a bank account or e-wallet, immediate action is advised. — DayakDaily
