KUALA LUMPUR: A retired teacher was left reeling after losing more than RM150,000 to a scam involving a fake digital currency investment syndicate that lured victims through social media platforms.
Acting Batu Pahat police chief, Superintendent Shahrulanuar Mushaddat Abdullah Sani, said that the 56-year-old victim fell prey after encountering investment advertisements from three organisations promising high returns on Telegram on March 26.
Intrigued by the financial prospects, the victim contacted an unknown individual via WhatsApp.
Subsequently, she was directed to a website linked to the investment opportunity and asked to input personal details.
"Between March 29 and July 6, the victim transferred RM156,850 to 34 different accounts in multiple transactions. After noticing profits in her investment account, she attempted to withdraw them, but the suspect began stalling and providing various excuses.
"The suspect continuously requested additional payments, but the victim, realising she had been deceived, refused to comply," he added.
The victim reported the incident to the Yong Peng police station recently, leading to an investigation under Section 420 of the Penal Code.
Shahrulanuar said the police had been actively warning the public against such scams through social media channels.
He advised the public to exercise caution and verify investment opportunities thoroughly before committing.
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