Retiree, clerk lose RM2.29m to scammers
A 45-year-old clerk and a 70-year-old retiree fell victims to scammers, losing a total of RM2.29 million in two separate incidents.
Johor acting police chief Deputy Commissioner M. Kumar said on Friday, the clerk lodged a report that she had transferred her savings of RM1,086,350 to a bogus police officer.
The fraudulent call, received in early November, falsely claimed that her bank account was flagged for alleged involvement in money laundering.
The imposter, masquerading as a helpful investigator, convinced her to disclose her banking details, including online banking access, ostensibly to assist the investigation and prevent the authorities from confiscating her funds.
Assured by the impostor that the sum would be credited back by the end of November after the supposed investigation’s completion, the clerk followed instructions to transfer the amount to a provided bank account.
Although the credited sum initially returned to her account, the relief was short-lived as the impostor swiftly withdrew almost RM1.1 million a few days later.
In a separate incident reported yesterday, a 70-year-old retiree lost RM1,204,363 to a non-existent investment scam.
Initially cautious, the retiree said he had invested a small amount, only to receive a phone call from an unidentified investment agent in September, touting a lucrative investment scheme.
Swayed by immediate profits on his initial investment, the retiree increased his investments, eventually reaching RM1,204,363.
However, he realised he was deceived when attempts to withdraw promised profits proved futile, and he encountered various excuses and coercion for additional payments.
Kumar reiterated the importance of public vigilance and recommended using the online services “Semak Mule” and “Whoscall” provided by the force’s Commercial Crime Investigation Department to verify unidentified callers.
“Always be vigilant, and remember that the police will not request your banking details,” he said.