Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim disclosed alarming statistics regarding online scams in Malaysia, revealing that the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) had received 37,002 distress calls from victims as of May 2024, amounting to a staggering RM203.33 million in reported losses.
Established on October 12, 2022, the NSRC has been pivotal in addressing the rising tide of online fraud. According to Anwar, the centre received a total of 95,094 calls from concerned citizens during this period. These figures underscore the pervasive threat posed by scammers targeting unsuspecting individuals across the country.
Anwar Ibrahim highlighted that law enforcement agencies have responded robustly to the issue, initiating 10,649 investigations under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which pertains to fraud cases. Additionally, authorities launched 74 investigations related to money laundering, resulting in the freezing of 637 accounts valued at RM72.38 million.
Responding to a query from Abdul Latiff Abdul Rahman in Parliament, Anwar underscored the NSRC's collaborative efforts with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). Together, they have taken proactive measures to curb fraudulent activities, including the termination of 131 phone numbers linked to scams and blocking 112 suspicious phone lines as of May 2024.
The Prime Minister emphasized the NSRC's dual mandate of providing assistance to victims and unraveling the tactics employed by scammers. This multifaceted approach aims not only to mitigate financial losses but also to enhance public awareness and preventive measures against such criminal activities.
The NSRC's role in educating the public about common scam tactics remains crucial. Recent cases reported include scams perpetrated under the guise of NSRC officials, reflecting the adaptability and audacity of fraudsters in exploiting public trust and institutional names for illicit gains.
Anwar Ibrahim's statement resonates amid a backdrop of escalating cyber threats globally, where digital advancements often outpace regulatory frameworks. The Malaysian government's commitment to combatting online fraud underscores its proactive stance in safeguarding citizens' financial security and privacy.
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