Sibu retiree fleeced out of RM136,000 in online business scam

SIBU: A retiree fell victim to an online business scam, losing RM136,000 in the process.

Sibu OCPD Asst Comm Zulkipli Suhaili the 60-year-old victim was enticed by an online offer, supposedly involving a well-known cosmetic brand available through the Ask-Oshop app.

On Oct 9, the victim came across an advertisement on Facebook and was then contacted by the suspect on WhatsApp, who introduced the business platform.

“The suspect promised significant profits, requiring only an investment in purchasing items sold on the app.

“Enticed by the offer, the victim made 32 transfers to 11 local accounts, totalling RM136,000, between Oct 13 and Nov 7,” ACP Zulkipli said on Wednesday (Nov 13).

However, on Nov 10, the suspect informed the victim that the app had been frozen and demanded an additional RM70,000 to continue the business.

Feeling suspicious and realizing he had been scammed, the victim filed a police report on Nov 12.

ACP Zulkipli reminded the public to exercise caution and avoid falling for social media advertisements that promise high returns, particularly on platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and WeChat.

Additionally, the public to consult the National Scam Response Center (NSRC) at 997 for advice and to verify suspicious bank accounts or phone numbers via http://ccid.rmp.gov.my/semakmule/.