SIBU: A housewife in her 60s lost a total of RM447,300 after falling victim to an online investment scam that is believed to be operated through social media and messaging apps.
According to Sibu Police Chief, ACP Zulkipli Suhaili, the victim’s ordeal began on January 11, when she befriended a woman who introduced herself as Ah Chong via Facebook.
“The victim later communicated with another suspect known as Amy through WhatsApp before joining a WhatsApp investment group named ‘Programme VIP012’, which later introduced her to a scheme using the name Malaysia J.P. Morgan Family Office,” he said in a statement today.
Convinced by the explanations and screenshots of profits shared by others in the group, the victim agreed to participate.
She was told that returns would be credited to an account under the name ‘JPFO MAX’, and she even downloaded an app to monitor the profits.
“The impressive returns shown on the JPFO MAX app prompted the victim to make more payments to gain higher profits,” he said.
Between April 16 and May 20, the victim made 33 transactions totalling RM447,300 to five local bank accounts.
However, when she attempted to withdraw what appeared to be RM800,000 in accumulated profits shown in the app, she was told that the investment was still ongoing, and more capital was needed.
“Up until the report was lodged, the victim had not received any returns, and realised she had been scammed. The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code.,” he added.
Zulkipli advised the public to remain vigilant against offers that promise high returns, and to always verify investment platforms and companies through Bank Negara Malaysia at www.bnm.gov.my or via BNMTELELINK at 1-300-88-5465, and with the Securities Commission Malaysia at www.sc.com.my or 03-6204 8999.
Checks on individuals or companies offering investments can also be done using the SC Investment Checker app or website at https://www.sc.com.my/investment-checker.
For advice or further information, contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997.
The public is also encouraged to follow Facebook pages @CyberCrimeAlertRMP and @JSJKPDRM for the latest updates, and verify suspicious bank accounts or phone numbers via http://ccid.rmp.gov.my/semakmule/.
