MIRI: A private company driver has fallen victim to an online car sales scam, resulting in a loss of RM6,500.
Miri OCPD ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said the victim, a man in his 40s, promptly lodged a police report on Wednesday (Sept 27) after realising that he had been cheated.
The victim’s interest had been piqued by a car sales advertisement offering sedans at an alluringly low price on Facebook.
He reached out to the provided contact number, subsequently engaging with the seller.
“As the discussions progressed, the victim willingly submitted several personal documents as per the seller’s request.
“The victim was also instructed to make payments totalling RM6,500 into five different bank accounts between Aug 26 and Sept 20, all conducted via online banking,” he said.
It was not until the expected car failed to arrive in Miri, and the seller’s contact became unreachable, that the victim realised he had fallen prey to a scam.
ACP Alexson said the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
In light of this incident, the public are advised to exercise caution and exclusively conduct purchases through reputable sales platforms.
He also stressed the importance of vigilance when engaging in financial transactions with unfamiliar individuals.
To report cybercrimes or any related activities, the public can contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997, especially if they suspect they have been scammed by a fraudulent syndicate or any dubious money transfer transactions.
