THE Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) has warned the public not to fall for cheap mobile phone offers on social media. 

“To avoid becoming a victim of an e-commerce scam, check the sellers’ profiles. 

“Scammers will use the name of certain companies to dupe victims,” the CCID said on its official Facebook page.

The police reminded that consumers must also check on the reviews as well as the comments.

“Be careful if you are asked to go into another website, download an Android Package Kit file, or deal through WhatsApp.

“Don’t divulge any personal or banking information to any unknown parties,” it added. 

The cops suggested potential buyers cross-check the account and phone numbers of a seller via the SemakMule website before making any transaction. 

“Victims of scams can contact the National Scam Response Centre at 997 or their respective banks to report on cases.” 

In 2019, police recorded 13, 703 scam cases, involving losses of RM539 million.  

It increased to 17,227 in 2020, with RM511.2 million in losses recorded. 

In 2021, there were 20,701 cases with losses amounting to RM560.8 million. 

Between January and July 2022, 12,092 cases were reported with losses of RM414.8 million. – May 20, 2023.