Retiree loses RM1.4m in phone scam after fraudsters pose as authorities

A 66-year-old private-sector retiree in Malaysia has lost more than RM1.417 million in a phone scam, according to police. The victim received a call on May 19 claiming he was involved in money-laundering activities. He was then instructed to open a new bank account and transfer his savings for verification by authorities. The fraudsters met the victim in a residential area, where he handed over his ATM card and PIN.

All of his funds, including those from his EPF, Amanah Saham Bumiputera, and Tabung Haji accounts, as well as proceeds from pawning gold, were transferred into six different bank accounts over until September 1. The victim discovered the theft and reported it to the police, who are investigating under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.

Police Chief Datuk Azry Akmar Ayob advised the public to seek police advice before responding to suspicious calls and to check bank account numbers via the Semak Mule website before making transactions. He also recommended contacting the National Scam Response Centre at 997.