KUCHING: A private company manager was left RM120,000 poorer after being duped in an online car purchase scam.
The victim, a man in his 40s, had come across a vehicle sales advertisement on Facebook earlier this month and clicked on the link provided.
He was later connected via WhatsApp to a man claiming to be an agent of a company identified as Y and B Expert Sdn Bhd.
Believing the deal to be genuine, the victim made several transactions amounting to RM120,000 into a bank account given by the suspect.
However, his suspicions arose when the agent continued to demand further payments to “complete the purchase process”.
Realising he had been cheated, the victim lodged a police report after failing to receive the vehicle.
The case is being investigated 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 not to be easily deceived by cheap online sales promotions on social media.
“They should always conduct proper checks before making any transactions.
“Further checks on suspicious phone numbers and bank accounts can be done via the Check Scammers CCID app or at http://semakmule.rmp.gov.my,” he said.
Members of the public should verify company and website details with Bank Negara Malaysia at http://www.bnm.gov.my / BNM Telelink 1-300-88-5465, or with the Securities Commission Malaysia at http://www.sc.com.my / 03-62048999.
