By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 3: A retired private sector worker in his 60s from Bintulu has lost more than RM450,000 after falling victim to a phone scam syndicate that impersonated insurance agents and police officers.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Dato Mancha Ata revealed that the case started in mid-June this year when the victim received a suspicious call at home.
“The victim was first contacted by an unknown individual who claimed he had received a health insurance policy from KPJ Damansara.
“He was then redirected to another suspect posing as a police officer, who alleged that the victim was involved in a money laundering case linked to a politician,” Mancha said in a statement today.
He explained that the victim was later contacted by a woman suspect, who instructed him to comply with directions and to keep the matter secret.
“Over several days, the victim followed the instructions and transferred money in stages into several bank accounts provided by the suspects, amounting to about RM450,000,” he added.
The victim only realised he had been cheated after coming across a news article about similar scams. He then lodged a police report for investigation.
Mancha reminded the public to always remain cautious and to verify suspicious calls through proper channels.
“Do not believe unknown callers blindly. Always check with official agencies such as Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) or the Securities Commission (SC) to confirm the legitimacy of companies or websites,” he stressed.
He further advised victims who have recently made fund transfers to scammers to immediately contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997.
“We also encourage the public to use apps like Whoscall, Investment Checker, and Check Scammers CCID, or the portal at http://semakmule.rmp.gov.my to verify suspicious numbers and accounts,” he said.
The public can also stay updated on the latest cybercrime modus operandi by following the official social media accounts of the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (JSJK) at @JSJKPDRM and @CyberCrimeAlertRMP on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. — DayakDaily
