MIRI: The public has been urged to remain vigilant against online scams as cybercrime cases continue to rise, causing victims to suffer significant financial losses.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said online fraud has become one of the major threats facing society today, with scam syndicates increasingly exploiting technology to deceive unsuspecting victims.
“Many victims have lost their savings after being deceived by scam syndicates.
“Criminals today use various tactics and impersonate government officials, bank officers, police personnel and company representatives to mislead their victims,” he said when officiating the Sembang Santai programme at the Kampung Pengkalan Lutong Multipurpose Hall here yesterday (June 6).
Lee said scam syndicates commonly impersonate government agencies, banks, police and companies to trick victims into revealing personal information or transferring money.
He advised the public to be cautious of suspicious phone calls, messages and links received from unknown parties, and reminded them never to disclose banking details, passwords or one-time passwords (OTPs) to anyone.
According to him, senior citizens and retirees are among the groups most vulnerable to online scams due to limited exposure to technological developments and digital security practices.
As such, he proposed that more awareness programmes be conducted specifically for these groups to strengthen their understanding of cybercrime threats and preventive measures.
