Phone scams targeting elderly in Malaysia

Recent reports highlight significant financial losses incurred by elderly individuals in Malaysia due to sophisticated phone scams.

In Kuantan, a 66-year-old retiree lost approximately RM1.4 million after being falsely accused of involvement in money laundering. The victim followed instructions to open a specific bank account and eventually handed over his ATM card and PIN to an individual. The stolen funds were drawn from various sources, including the Employees Provident Fund and gold pawnings.

In Ipoh, a 78-year-old man lost RM1.9 million to a syndicate using police impersonation. Suspects reportedly used their perceived authority to instill fear, convincing the victim he was under investigation to coerce the transfer of funds.

In both instances, local police are investigating the cases under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. Authorities have issued warnings to the public, particularly the elderly, to remain vigilant and to verify suspicious calls through official channels, noting that police will never instruct individuals to transfer money to specific accounts for investigation purposes.