Milton Foo Advices Public To Stay Vigilant Due To Many Types Of Scams

suppadmin | September 19, 2025

A retiree from Kuching endured three weeks of fear after falling victim to a scam syndicate that posed as WeChat representatives and Chinese police officers.

SUPP Public Complaints Bureau Chief Milton Foo said the woman was nearly conned out of her savings after receiving a call from Shenzhen, where the caller alleged she had registered a second WeChat account linked to fraud. The line was then transferred to a so-called police officer in Hangzhou.

“The officer appeared in uniform during a video call, sitting in what looked like a police office. He even addressed her as ‘Auntie’ and accused her of being involved in a RM2.6 million fraud case,” Foo revealed.

He said the victim was pressured into giving her personal details, signing a secrecy agreement, and submitting to surveillance through Zoom. The scammers later demanded RM200,000 in bail to prevent detention in China.

“Thankfully, when the conversation turned entirely to money, she realised it was a scam. She sought legal advice and eventually lodged a police report,” Foo said.

According to Foo, the case highlights how syndicates have become increasingly sophisticated by using video calls, fake settings, and uniforms to deceive their targets.

“No genuine police force will ever impose bail or fines through video calls. Once money is sent, it is almost impossible to get it back. I strongly urge retirees and the public at large to remain alert and verify suspicious calls with the local police,” he warned.