SIBU: A retiree lost RM371,199 after falling victim to an online business scam promising lucrative profits.
The ordeal began on February 26 when the man, in his 60s, opened online business accounts on Amazon and TikTok after being introduced to the opportunity by an individual known as Matsushita Meidu via WhatsApp.
Sibu police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili said the victim was later informed by a so-called ‘customer service’ representative that he would earn significant profits – 50 per cent for the Amazon account, which would be upgraded to five stars, and 25 per cent for the TikTok account.
“Enticed by the offer, the victim proceeded with the business and was instructed to transfer money to process customer orders.
“Between March 11 and 17, he transferred RM371,199 in 20 transactions to eight different local bank accounts.
“After two weeks, he found himself unable to process customer orders due to insufficient funds in both accounts, which also left him locked out.
“To reactivate them, he was told to transfer additional funds into an e-wallet linked to the accounts,” Zulkipli said.
Realising something was amiss, the victim suspected he had been scammed and lodged a police report on March 18.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
Zulkipli urged the public to be cautious and not fall for business offers on social media that promise high returns.
“The public should conduct thorough checks with relevant companies or agencies before applying for or accepting any dubious business offer,” he said.
For assistance, contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997 or visit the Facebook pages @cybercrimealertrmp and @jsjkpdrm.
Suspicious bank accounts or numbers can also be verified through the Semak Mule website at ccid.rmp.gov.my/semakmule.
