Scam Awareness: Protecting Yourself From Festive Fraud & Online Scams
Apr 9
4 min read
Author: Muhammad Azly Haziq Sazali
As the joyous season of Aidilfitri approaches, so do opportunistic scammers looking to exploit the festive spirit. With the increase in online shopping, digital transactions, and charitable donations, it is crucial to stay vigilant against fraudulent activities. Here are some common scams to watch out for and tips on how to protect yourself.
Common Festive Scams
Online Shopping ScamsWith the rise of e-commerce, scammers take advantage of the festive shopping rush by creating fake websites and social media stores that closely resemble legitimate retailers. They lure consumers with massive discounts on popular items, only for buyers to either receive counterfeit goods or nothing at all. Another common trick is fake sellers on marketplace platforms who insist on direct bank transfers instead of secure payment options.How to Protect Yourself:
• Shop from reputable websites and verify sellers on online marketplaces.
• Use secure payment methods such as payment platforms that offer buyer protection.
• Read customer reviews and check for red flags like new or unverified sellers.
• Avoid deals that require direct bank transfers or cryptocurrency payments.
Phishing & Fake Charity ScamsFraudsters often impersonate charities and NGOs, sending messages or emails requesting donations for those in need. These scams usually contain links to fake donation websites that steal your financial information. Some even pose as religious organizations running 'official' Aidilfitri relief programs.How to Protect Yourself:
• Verify the legitimacy of a charity through official sources before donating.
• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages; instead, type the official website URL manually.
• Be cautious of high-pressure donation requests urging immediate action.
Travel & Holiday Rental ScamsFestive periods see a surge in travel bookings, and scammers capitalize on this by offering fake vacation packages, flight tickets, and homestay rentals at unbeatable prices. Victims who make payments upfront often find their bookings are non-existent or fraudulent. How to Protect Yourself:
• Book flights and accommodations through well-known travel agencies or verified platforms.
• Confirm reservations directly with the service provider.
• Avoid making full payments upfront to unverified individuals.
Fake Investment & Loan ScamsScammers promise ‘quick’ investment returns or easy personal loans with no background checks, targeting those looking for extra financial help during the festive season. They require upfront fees for processing or registration, only to disappear once payment is made.How to Protect Yourself:
• Verify financial institutions with Bank Negara Malaysia before engaging in any investment or loan offers.
• Be cautious of unsolicited offers that promise guaranteed returns with minimal risk.
• Never pay upfront fees for loan approvals.
Job Offer & Part-Time Work ScamsDuring festive seasons, many people seek extra income through part-time work. Scammers exploit this by offering fake job opportunities requiring applicants to pay registration fees or purchase materials upfront. Victims are often left unpaid after completing assigned tasks.
How to Protect Yourself:
• Avoid job offers requiring upfront fees.
• Verify the legitimacy of the company through official websites and reviews.
• Be wary of ‘too-good-to-be-true’ job offers promising easy money.
How to Stay Safe This Festive Season
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Secure your online accounts with extra layers of protection.
Verify Before You Buy or Donate: Cross-check sellers and charities on official platforms.
Avoid Clicking on Unverified Links: Always type the website URL manually instead of clicking links in messages.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect fraud, report it to the authorities such as:-
the Royal Malaysian Police (“PDRM”), specifically the Commercial Crimes Investigation Department (“CCID”) Scam Response Centre at 03-26101559 or 03-26101599. [1] In addition, you can search whether a bank account, telephone number, or company has a record of being involved in scams via https://semakmule.rmp.gov.my/, especially before making bank transfers.
the National Scam Response Centre (“NSRC”) of the National Anti-Financial Crime Centre (“NFCC”), [3] a dedicated initiative under the Prime Minister’s Department that provides assistance to scam victims and facilitates quick action to prevent further financial losses, by calling 997;
the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (“KPDN”) which handles, among others, fraudulent transactions and misleading business practices, by calling 1-800-886-800, via Whatsapp at 019-279 4317, making complaints via https://e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my/, [4] or emailing e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my; and/or
the Tribunal for Consumer Claims Malaysia (“TTPM”) for scams involving the purchase of goods or services, which provides an accessible and cost-effective platform for consumers to seek compensation from fraudulent sellers or service providers. Claims can be filed online, or at the TTPM office.
This festive season, let’s celebrate with joy and generosity but also with caution. Stay informed and protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to scams.
Messrs Ashraf & Partners is dedicated to keeping our clients and the general public informed of their rights and legal protections. That said, we wish you Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, maaf zahir dan batin!
The information in this article is intended only to provide general information and does not constitute any legal opinion or professional advice.
