Scam Guides
Short guides to the scam tactics common in Malaysia, how to check bank accounts, phone numbers and licences, and what to do right away if you have been hit.
How to check if a bank account belongs to a scammer
How to check whether a Malaysian bank account has been reported for scams using PDRM SemakMule, what the result means, and what to do before you transfer.
How to check a scammer's phone number in Malaysia
Check a scammer's phone number with PDRM SemakMule before you reply to a call or WhatsApp. Learn the limits of the check and the signs of a fake call.
Macau scam: fake police, court and bank officers
Macau scams impersonate police, courts, LHDN or banks to frighten victims into transferring money. Learn the script and what to do if you are hit.
Investment scams: forex, crypto, gold and 'AI trading'
Spot investment scams in forex, crypto, gold, get-rich-quick schemes and 'AI trading', and learn how to check a BNM or SC licence before you invest.
Part-time job scams: 'like & review' and prepaid tasks
Part-time job scams offer easy pay for likes, reviews or online tasks, then ask you to pay a deposit. Learn the tactics and how to check the account first.
Mule accounts: the risk of renting out your bank account
A mule account is a bank account scammers use to receive victims' money. Learn the legal risks of renting or selling your account and how to check one.
Love scams: romance fraud online
Love scams start with an online romance on social media or dating apps, then ask for money. Learn the warning signs and what to do if you are targeted.
Parcel scams: packages and gifts 'stuck at customs'
Parcel scams claim a package or gift is stuck at customs and demand payment. Learn the fake courier tactics and what to do if you paid or clicked.
Online shopping scams: fake sellers on social media
Avoid online shopping scams from fake sellers on Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Check the seller's bank account and phone number before you pay.
APK scams: fake app files sent on WhatsApp
APK scams send fake app files on WhatsApp, such as wedding invitations or house cleaning services, to steal your banking OTP and drain your bank account.
Fake loans: online ah long asking for fees upfront
Fake loan scams ask for a processing fee, deposit or insurance before a loan is approved. Learn the warning signs and how to check a lender's licence.
How to check a BNM or SC licence before investing
How to check a BNM or SC licence: BNM's financial institutions directory, the SC licensed persons list, the FCA and IAL alert lists, and SSM registration.