KUCHING: Ignorance is the main reason why certain people fall victim to scams. Sarawak Commercial Crime Investigation Department head Supt. Mustafa Kamal (pic) said that victims did not bother to read the news reported on social media or newspapers. He added it was unfortunate that the victims had access to social media but when it came to serious news, they dismissed it without showing any interest.
“Victims who were interviewed said they were more interested in games, entertainment and gossiping. “They were cheated for not knowing the scammer’s modus operandi. If they had bothered to read, they would not be in such situation. It is regretful as some of the victims lost their life-long savings,” said Mustafa. He also said that there was another way to stop the scammers which was to let family and friends know of the tactics used by scammers.
“Many young and educated individuals have been scammed including those in the civil service. “Do not think that you are educated so you will not be cheated. The scammers are good at playing up the situation and you will not be able to think logically unless you read and know of the modus operandi used. “No government agencies or police or even Bank Negara will deal with money transactions through a telephone call. Seek for a second opinion before parting with your money,” he said.
Meanwhile, a businesswoman in Miri lost her hard-earned money worth RM30,000 to scammers who claimed that she had an unpaid summon from her rented car in Johor on Nov 19. After being asked to contact a number of people on Thursday, the 29-year-old not only provided her family’s full personal details, but also transferred her money from her Maybank account to an account at Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia under the name Nur Aeffariesha. She was then asked to send more which triggered her suspicions.
After checking with friends, she was convinced that she was scammed. Scammers have also tried to cheat a housewife and a clerk in Miri. It was reported that the two did not entertain the calls and have blocked the numbers.
