Kuala Lumpur: Over 35,000 scam cases leading to financial losses amounting to RM1.6 billion were recorded last year, as disclosed by Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf, director of the Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID). He highlighted that these scams accounted for 84.5 percent of the 41,701 commercial crime cases reported during the period.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, there was a three percent increase in scam cases in 2024, rising from 34,495 in 2023. Ramli emphasized that these statistics are not only indicative of financial damage but also reflect the psychological distress experienced by victims, who often feel trapped and overwhelmed.

Ramli outlined the nature of these scams, which range from fraudulent phone calls and messages to fake investment schemes promising high returns. He stressed the importance of public awareness to protect against such crimes. “Raising awareness about scams is essential for safeguarding ourselves and our families,” he stated.

He further detailed that collaborative efforts led to 24,388 raids across the nation last year, resulting in the arrest of 25,829 individuals suspected of involvement in scams and other commercial crimes. Out of these, 16,813 cases were successfully prosecuted in court. However, he urged that the responsibility for prevention extends beyond Polis Diraja Malaysia and banks, calling for public vigilance and knowledge sharing on scam prevention.

Ramli also noted the banking industry’s role from 2023 to 2024, as they intercepted and blocked suspicious and fraudulent online transactions totaling over RM780 million. Additionally, 67 bank staff were recognized for preventing fraudulent transactions worth approximately RM12.4 million last year, highlighting the critical role of frontline banking personnel in safeguarding customers.