Kota Kinabalu police report RM11.12 million lost to 214 online scams in early 2024, with e-commerce vehicle fraud a major tactic used by syndicates

KOTA KINABALU: The Kota Kinabalu District Police Headquarters has recorded losses totalling RM11.12 million from 214 online fraud cases between January and March 15.

Acting police chief Supt Syed Lot Syed Ab Rahman said these cases form part of 290 commercial crime investigations opened this year, with total losses amounting to RM14.628 million.

He added that 46 cases involved e-commerce fraud, particularly vehicle transactions, resulting in losses of RM328,888.

Commenting on the vehicle fraud tactics, he said syndicates act as cunning intermediaries by reposting images of vehicles owned by others on social media at significantly lower prices.

“When victims show interest, the syndicates negotiate the price and direct them to the original owner’s address to view the vehicle,” he said in a statement.

Syed Lot explained that syndicates simultaneously inform the real vehicle owner that a representative will be coming to inspect the car.

“Once the victim is satisfied and agrees to buy, the syndicates request payment before supposedly handing over the vehicle,” he said.

After victims transfer payment, the actual vehicle owners refuse to hand over the cars as they have not received any money.

The syndicates then disappear and block all contact with the victims.

Investigations found the e-commerce syndicates merely acted as third-party intermediaries online and never met either party.

Syed Lot also advised the public to remain vigilant against scam syndicates offering fake homestay bookings through social media.

He said such scams often target urban and tourist areas, especially during school holidays and festive seasons.

The public is urged to conduct thorough checks before making any payments for accommodations or vehicles.

“Police advise the public not to be easily swayed by advertisements on social media or offers that seem too cheap,” he said.

He stressed the importance of verifying the identity of vehicle owners or service providers before carrying out any transactions.

 The Sun Malaysia