KUALA LUMPUR: Police have detected a new scam tactic offering discounts on Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) bill payments.
Federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf said seven cases related to the fraudulent scheme, involving a total loss of RM279,289, had been reported.
"The syndicate offers discounts on TNB bills through Facebook, with discounts ranging from 20 to 30 per cent," he said at a press conference at Menara KPJ here today (Sept 6).
He said prospective victims were asked to contact a handphone number provided and to submit a photo of their TNB bill.
"After sending the bill photo, the syndicate will send a fake payment receipt, claiming the bill has been settled. Victims are then instructed to transfer the amount (after the discount) to a bank account provided by the syndicate.
"However, once the transfer is made, victims will find that their TNB bills remain unpaid," he added.
Ramli said all the cases were being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code.
"Police advise the public to remain vigilant and not be easily deceived by such scams. Seek advice and verification from relevant agencies regarding the authenticity of such offers," he said.