Phone Scam Malaysia Businessman Loses RM2.7 Million
A phone scam in Malaysia has left a 64-year-old businessman poorer by more than RM2.7 million, highlighting how sophisticated scam syndicates continue to exploit fear and authority to deceive victims.
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Phone scam Malaysia incident highlights how police impersonation fraud led to a businessman losing RM2.7 million |
The incident, reported in Kuala Terengganu, shows how scammers impersonating police officers can manipulate even experienced individuals into transferring large sums of money. Authorities are now investigating the case as public concern over phone scams in Malaysia continues to grow.
How the Phone Scam in Malaysia Happened
According to Terengganu police, the businessman received a phone call in early September from individuals claiming to be officers from the Petaling Jaya district police headquarters.
The callers accused him of being involved in money laundering activities, a tactic commonly used in police impersonation scams across Malaysia. To increase pressure, the suspects warned him of possible legal consequences if he failed to cooperate.
Fake Police Instructions and Psychological Pressure
The scammers instructed the victim to:
- Transfer RM2.7 million into five separate bank accounts under his own name
- Avoid checking or using the accounts
- Remain silent about the matter for “security reasons”
Fearing arrest and legal action, the businessman followed all instructions without verifying the claims with authorities.
When the Victim Discovered the Scam
The fraud remained undetected for several months. Between September and January, the victim did not access the accounts as instructed.
When he finally checked, he discovered that all funds had vanished. Realising he had been scammed, he lodged a police report in Kuala Terengganu.
Police have since opened an investigation under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which covers cheating and fraud.
Why Phone Scams in Malaysia Are So Effective
Phone scams in Malaysia continue to succeed because they rely on:
- Authority impersonation, especially police or government officers
- Fear tactics, such as threats of arrest or investigation
- Urgency, pushing victims to act without verification
- Isolation, instructing victims not to consult others
Even educated professionals and business owners can fall victim when psychological pressure is applied skillfully.
Common Police Impersonation Scam Tactics in Malaysia
Scammers frequently:
- Use official-sounding titles and case numbers
- Claim your bank account is linked to illegal activities
- Ask you to “secure” money by transferring it
- Warn you not to speak to family, banks, or lawyers
Legitimate Malaysian police never ask individuals to transfer money to resolve investigations.
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call
If you suspect a phone scam in Malaysia:
- Hang up immediately
- Verify directly with the police or relevant authority
- Do not transfer money under any circumstances
- Report the call to the police or the National Scam Response Centre
Rising Phone Scam Cases in Malaysia
This case is not isolated. Reports of phone scam fraud in Malaysia have increased in recent years, with millions of ringgit lost annually.
Authorities continue to urge the public to remain cautious, especially when receiving unsolicited calls involving financial or legal threats.
Conclusion
The phone scam Malaysia case involving a businessman losing RM2.7 million serves as a serious warning. Scammers are becoming more convincing, patient, and strategic.
Staying informed, verifying claims, and refusing to act under pressure are the best defenses. Awareness remains the strongest weapon against phone scams in Malaysia.

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