KUCHING: A consumer group has raised alarm over a bank’s refusal to disclose key transaction details in an online scam case involving losses amounting to RM23,500.
The Sarawak Consumers Association (PPS) expressed serious concern over the lack of cooperation from the financial institution, warning that such actions could hinder urgent efforts to trace and recover stolen funds.
President of the PPS, Dr Wynson Ong Teck Ping, said efforts to combat scams are not solely the responsibility of enforcement agencies alone.
He stressed that banks play a crucial role, as every account is approved through internal verification processes, making them key players in preventing financial systems from being exploited.
The case involved a victim deceived by a fake “government tender” offer, leading to a transfer of funds into a company account believed linked to fraudulent activities.
The victim reportedly trusted the scammer due to possession of personal information, creating a false sense of legitimacy and prompting the financial transaction without suspicion.
Immediate action was taken by the victim, including lodging a police report, contacting the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) via hotline 997 and notifying the bank involved.
However, the bank allegedly declined to provide even basic updates, such as whether the transferred funds remained in the recipient account or had been moved elsewhere.
The refusal was reportedly justified on grounds of customer confidentiality, a stance PPS argued should not obstruct urgent intervention in clear-cut scam cases.
“We are not requesting confidential customer data, only confirmation of transaction status to enable swift action in mitigating losses,”said Dr Ong.
He added that delays or non-cooperation in such critical moments could worsen victims’ financial situations and reduce the likelihood of fund recovery.
PPS has since intervened officially and pledged continued support for the victim in seeking justice and ensuring appropriate follow-up actions are taken.
The association also urged banks nationwide to prioritise consumer protection, enhance transparency, and act swiftly in freezing suspicious accounts linked to fraudulent activities.
Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant, especially when dealing with offers involving tenders or official matters, and to verify legitimacy before making any payments.
PPS reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the case closely, emphasising that collective responsibility among financial institutions, authorities, and consumers is vital in combating online scams.
