Perak recorded nearly 5,000 online fraud cases with RM125 million in losses last year, with a concerning increase in scams targeting students
IPOH: Online fraud losses in Perak reached nearly RM125 million last year, with a worrying rise in cases among students. State Communications, Multimedia and NGO Committee chairman Mohd Azlan Helmi revealed the data in the State Assembly.
A total of 4,848 cases involving losses of RM124.99 million were recorded in 2025. Mohd Azlan said data from the Royal Malaysia Police showed scams affected all segments of society regardless of age, occupation or background.
“While senior citizens remain the most vulnerable group, recent trends indicate a growing number of cases involving students,” he said. He added that male and female victims are almost evenly split.
He was responding to a question on the state government’s strategies to address the serious issue. The most common scams include telecommunications fraud like fake calls and phishing.
This is followed by non-existent investment schemes, e-commerce scams, love scams and sophisticated fraud using artificial intelligence. Alongside initiatives by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, a Safe Internet Campaign was implemented in 906 schools across Perak over the past year.
“For 2026, the programme will be expanded to the village, mukim and district levels,” Mohd Azlan said. This aims to ensure internet safety awareness reaches all segments of society more effectively.
On long-term measures, the government is focusing on strengthening digital literacy. It is also leveraging artificial intelligence and data analytics for early detection of fraudulent activities.
Efforts include enhancing legal frameworks to enable stricter action against scam syndicates and mule account holders. “Emphasis is placed on digital literacy education, the use of AI technology and data analysis for early detection,” he said.
The financial security ecosystem is also being strengthened through cross-agency collaboration. Targeted prevention programmes are being developed to better protect high-risk groups like senior citizens and students.
