Retired teacher loses RM36,765 in social media investment scam promising fast returns

LocalPersonal Finance
11 May 2026 • 2:42 PM MYT
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Retired teacher loses RM36,765 in social media investment scam promising fast returns

A RETIRED teacher from Pontian , Johor lost RM36,765 after being deceived by an investment syndicate advertising high returns through social media, police said.

Pontian district police chief Superintendent Hadzrat Hussein Mion Hussein said the 68-year-old victim lodged a police report at 10.10pm on 8 May after realising she had been defrauded.

According to the report, the victim was persuaded to participate in what was presented as a lucrative investment opportunity offering substantial profits over a short period.

The woman subsequently carried out seven separate financial transactions between 16 and 29 April into several different bank accounts, amounting to a total loss of RM36,765.

“The victim later realised she had been cheated when she was asked to make additional payments in order to recover both her capital and the profits that had been promised,” Hadzrat said in a statement issued on Monday.

Police have since urged the public to remain vigilant against suspicious investment schemes promoted online, particularly those guaranteeing unusually high or immediate returns.

Authorities also advised individuals to verify the legitimacy of companies or agents involved in investment offers and ensure they are registered with the Securities Commission Malaysia or Bank Negara Malaysia before making any financial commitment.

Members of the public who encounter dubious or unrealistic investment proposals have been encouraged to contact the National Scam Response Centre through its emergency hotline at 997 for immediate assistance. - May 11, 2026