Scam Awareness Center

Knowledge is your best defense. Learn how to identify, avoid, and report the most common scams targeting Malaysians.

Phishing Attacks

Attackers send deceptive emails or SMS masquerading as reputable entities (like banks or TNB) to trick you into revealing sensitive information like passwords or OTPs.

  • Never click links in unexpected SMS or emails.
  • Verify the sender's actual email address.
  • Legitimate organizations will never ask for your OTP.

Social Engineering

Psychological manipulation designed to bypass technical security by tricking humans into breaking normal security procedures out of fear, urgency, or curiosity.

  • Beware of sudden, urgent requests for help from "friends" online.
  • Always verify their identity via a separate communication channel.
  • Do not let panic or pressure dictate your actions.

Ransomware

Malicious software that infiltrates your device and encrypts all your files, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the attacker.

  • Regularly backup your data to offline storage or the cloud.
  • Do not download pirated software or cracked games.
  • Never pay the ransom; there is no guarantee files will be restored.

Macau Scams (Impersonation)

Scammers call claiming to be from the Police (PDRM), LHDN, Court, or Pos Malaysia, alleging you have unpaid taxes, a suspicious package, or a warrant.

  • Authorities will never ask for money transfers over the phone.
  • Hang up immediately. Do not press any numbers.
  • Verify directly by calling the official hotlines.

Fake Job / Task Scams

You're offered a part-time job that just requires "liking YouTube videos". They pay you small amounts at first, then ask you to deposit large sums for bigger tasks.

  • Legitimate jobs do not require you to pay to work.
  • Avoid "easy money" Telegram groups.
  • If it sounds too good to be true, it is.

Mule Account Dangers

Allowing someone to use your bank account or ATM card for transfers makes you a "Mule". You will be held legally responsible for any scammed money that passes through.

  • Never rent or lend your bank account to anyone.
  • You can face jail time and be blacklisted by banks.
  • Report lost ATM cards immediately.

Scammed? Act Fast!

If you have transferred money to a scammer, immediately call the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997 within 24 hours to attempt freezing the funds.

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