KUCHING: Sarawak Consumer Association (PPS) has uncovered a sophisticated fraud scheme involving the unauthorised use of a legitimate vehicle dealership’s corporate identity to deceive unsuspecting car buyers through online platforms.
Ben Lee Automobile Sdn Bhd has lodged an official complaint on January 8 with PPS after discovering that fraudsters have been impersonating the company by illegally using its logo, name, and vehicle photographs to conduct bogus sales transactions online.
The company has also reported receiving multiple complaints from victims who fell prey to the scam.
According to PPS, the financial losses suffered by victims vary considerably. One complainant lost RM3,900, while another parted with RM6,300.
Several other victims reported different amounts in what appears to be a well-organised operation targeting multiple buyers.
Critically, all payments were channelled into personal bank accounts rather than the company’s official business account – a red flag that ultimately exposed the fraudulent nature of the transactions.
PPS has confirmed that Ben Lee Automobile’s legitimate business account bears the company’s registered name. The accounts used by the suspects have no affiliation with the dealership whatsoever.
The unauthorised exploitation of the company’s branding materials has not only caused financial harm to consumers but has also damaged the reputation of Ben Lee Automobile, a business known for its ethical practices.
PPS President, Dr Wynson Ong Teck Ping, explained the typical pattern employed by such fraudsters.
“These perpetrators usually start small, requesting modest deposits or booking fees to establish trust with potential buyers. Once confidence is built, they escalate their demands for larger sums, resulting in substantial financial losses to the victims,” he said.
Wynson urged the public to exercise extreme caution when purchasing vehicles, emphasising the importance of conducting transactions face-to-face or exclusively through verified official company channels.
“Before making any payment, consumers must verify the recipient’s bank account details thoroughly. Ensure the account is registered under the legitimate company name, not an individual’s personal account,” he advised.
PPS has identified fraud and scam activities as among the most pressing consumer protection concerns today, particularly those conducted through digital platforms.
The organisation strongly cautions against transferring funds to personal accounts when purchasing high-value items such as vehicles, property, or electronic equipment.
Wynson reminded consumers that the right to accurate and truthful information is fundamental among the eight recognised consumer rights.
He encouraged buyers to conduct due diligence by researching sellers’ backgrounds, verifying business legitimacy, and confirming they are dealing with authorised representatives before committing to any financial transaction.
PPS reported that complaints regarding online sales fraud constitute a significant portion of cases received by the organisation, underscoring the need for heightened consumer awareness and prudent purchasing practices.
The public is advised to contact the PPS Official Hotline at 017-710 9299 for consumer-related complaints or advisory services.
