Public warned over online domestic helper scams after victims lose up to RM5,900 to syndicates on social media platforms.
KUALA LUMPUR: The public has been urged to exercise caution when responding to domestic helper recruitment offers advertised online following reports of a scam syndicate allegedly targeting victims through social media platforms.
Speaking at a press conference today, MCA deputy national chief and Federal Territories Youth chief Mike Chong Yew Chuan said the syndicate allegedly used convincing online profiles, supporting documents and claims of “no deposit required” to lure victims.
He said the group is believed to be operating on platforms such as Xiaohongshu and Instagram, primarily targeting Chinese-speaking users.
“At least two victims have come forward after allegedly falling victim to an online domestic helper recruitment scam, with losses of up to RM5,900 reported.
“After payment is made, victims claim no domestic helper is provided, while the suspects either disappear or block all communication,” he said.
According to Chong, payments were allegedly directed into personal bank accounts rather than accounts belonging to registered companies.
He said the syndicate appeared legitimate by providing detailed personal profiles of purported domestic helpers, along with documents such as passports, payslips, invoices and customer testimonials.
“The scammers did not ask for a deposit. Instead, victims were instructed to pay three months’ salary in advance, allegedly amounting to about RM6,300 after a discounted monthly rate was offered.
“One victim became suspicious after being denied a video call with the purported domestic helper and being pressured to make full payment upfront. He eventually chose not to proceed after the warning signs emerged,” he said.
Chong added that complaints would also be submitted to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to facilitate action against the social media accounts involved.
Meanwhile, Employment Agencies Malaysia Association secretary-general Tan Kim Thin reminded the public that there is no shortcut to legally hiring a domestic helper in Malaysia.
He said all recruitment should be conducted through agencies licensed and registered with the Labour Department, with the process typically taking between two and four months and costing from about RM10,000 onwards.
“All payments should be made directly to licensed companies and not to personal bank accounts.
“So-called ‘maid rental’ arrangements or payments made directly to individuals are illegal and may amount to offences under immigration laws or even provisions related to human trafficking,” he said.
Tan also warned that engaging unregulated domestic helper services could expose employers to significant risks, including the absence of medical screening, background checks and proper immigration documentation.
“These issues may compromise household safety and expose employers to potential legal consequences,” he said.
He further urged the government to streamline and expedite the legal recruitment process for foreign domestic helpers, noting that individuals in urgent need of assistance are often the most vulnerable to fraudulent offers.
