Scams can happen to anyone, whether they be old, young, rich, or poor as these fraudulent schemes often prey on human emotions such as fear or greed.
An elderly woman was left with a gaping hole in her wallet after she was conned out of RM10 million by a cryptocurrency investment scheme which never existed in the first place.
80yo M’sian woman loses RM10mil to crypto scam
According to Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf, the 80-year-old woman, who is a retiree, was first introduced to the investment scheme after she was added into a WhatsApp group which promoted a cryptocurrency-based investment scheme known as ‘accerx.com.’
“Through the group, the victim dealt with a man who claimed to advance money for the purchase of cryptocurrency.
“The victim was asked to make repayments after the successful purchase of the cryptocurrency,” he said in a statement as quoted by NST.
Completely reeled in by the deceitful tactics, the victim proceeded to make 13 bank transactions to multiple bank accounts under the names of eight different companies, where she paid a total of RM10,455,288.
She eventually came to her senses and felt something was fishy with the investment scheme when asked to make additional payments for various reasons, prompting her to lodge a police report on Friday (Jan 26).
In light of the woman’s devastating loss, Ramli urged the public, particularly the elderly, not to easily believe in online investment offers they see on social media.
“Conduct checks with relevant agencies, including Bank Negara Malaysia and the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), before deciding to join any investment scheme.
“For advice or further information, the public can contact the nearest police station or inquire with CCID at 013-2111222,” he said.
The case is currently being probed under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
Not too long ago, another woman lost millions to a fake gold investment scheme:
