Miri civil servant loses RM155,000 life savings to phone impersonation scam

MIRI (Aug 28): A civil servant here has lost RM155,000 of her life savings after falling victim to an impersonation scam.

Miri police said in a statement that the victim was initially contacted by an individual claiming to be from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

The suspect alleged that her phone number was involved in a fraud case.

The victim attempted to file a police report through the call and was subsequently connected to a person claiming to be a police officer.

She was then instructed to file an ‘online police report’ and keep the matter a secret, including from her family members.

“The victim was then told to transfer money to settle the case and assist in the investigation.

“She made 14 transactions to two different bank accounts, resulting in total losses of RM155,000,” said the statement.

The police reminded the public that no law enforcement agency would request fund transfers to individuals or specific bank accounts to settle a case.

Those receiving suspicious calls are advised not to panic nor believe the caller.

“Do not disclose your personal, banking, one-time password (OTP), or transaction authorisation code (TAC) information, do not transfer money at the caller’s instruction, and do not keep it a secret.

“Victims should discuss the matter with your family members or someone you trust,” added the police.

For suspicious transactions, contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) on 997 immediately and check as well as verify information with the relevant agency through official channels.