MIRI: A private retiree saw his dream of financial gain turn into a nightmare when he lost RM2.5 million in a fake investment scheme.
In mid-April this year, the victim, a man in his 60s, came across an investment advertisement on Facebook while at home. Attracted by the scheme, he proceeded to invest through an application called ‘Stefelai’.
Believing the investment to be genuine, the victim made several transactions in stages, amounting to RM2.5 million into bank accounts provided by the suspect.
However, he never received any returns from the investment, and realised that he had been scammed.
The man reported the incident to police for further investigation under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata, who confirmed the case, advised the public to exercise caution when dealing with investment schemes promoted on social media.
“Always verify before making any financial commitments,” he said.
He also urged those who have recently transferred funds to suspicious accounts to immediately contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997.
To reduce the risk of falling prey to scams, the public is encouraged to download the Whoscall application from Google Play Store or Apple Store to help screen unknown calls.
For the latest updates on scam tactics, Mancha encouraged the public to follow the Commercial Crime Investigation Department’s (CCID) official social media accounts at @JSJKPDRM and @CyberCrimeAlertRMP on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Members of the public can check the list of unauthorised companies and websites at http://www.bnm.gov.my or contact BNMTELELINK at 1-300-88-5465 (Bank Negara Malaysia) and http://www.sc.com.my or 03-6204 8999 (Securities Commission Malaysia).
Users can also verify individuals or investment companies through the Investment Checker at https://www.sc.com.my/investment-checker and check scam phone numbers or bank accounts via the CCID Check Scammers app or http://semakmule.rmp.gov.my.
