[UPDATED] Police: E-commerce scams cost Malaysians RM63mil in six months

New Straits Times

23-07-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: KUALA LUMPUR: E-commerce fraud continues to rise at an alarming rate, with over RM63 million in losses recorded in the first six months of 2025.
Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said a total of 5,252 cases were reported between January and June this year, involving multiple digital platforms including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, TikTok and Mudah.my.
He said the most common modus operandi involved fake sellers offering non-existent items, which were never delivered despite payment made by victims.
"Other tactics include fraudulent websites designed to appear legitimate, which are used to steal personal and financial information, as well as phishing attacks via email or messaging apps that impersonate e-commerce companies," he told reporters today.
Rusdi said some scams also involve false refund claims and the use of stolen credit cards in online transactions.
"E-commerce fraud cases have remained persistently high in recent years, with 9,247 cases involving RM139 million in losses in 2022, 10,372 cases involving nearly RM175 million in losses in 2023, and 7,662 cases involving RM70.8 million in losses last year.
"Between January and June this year, 5,252 cases have already been reported involving RM63.9 million in losses.
"We urge consumers to only perform transactions on trusted, reputable platforms, and to check reviews and ratings from previous buyers before making purchases.
"Avoid sharing sensitive information such as your identification number or bank details carelessly. Use secure and traceable payment methods, and be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true," he said.
Rusdi also advised the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activity to the authorities to help curb this growing threat.