Retiree Targeted by Phone Scam in Terengganu
A government retiree in Kuala Terengganu became the latest victim of a sophisticated phone scam, with a total loss of RM88,000 comprised of the Tabung Haji funds and his wife’s savings. The incident underscores the ongoing threat to seniors and the need for heightened awareness about fraudulent calls that play on trust and urgency.
What Happened
According to Kuala Terengganu district police chief ACP Azli Mohd Noor, the 75-year-old man was duped on December 2 when scammers contacted him by phone. The caller appeared to be a genuine banking or government representative, using convincing language and pressure tactics to coax the victim into transferring money. The scheme manipulated the trusts placed in familiar institutions and personal relationships to evoke fear and compliance.
Scope of the Loss
The senior couple’s total loss stood at RM88,000, a sizable sum that represented retirement savings and specialized funds kept for family planning. The case highlights how quickly legitimate-looking phone calls can erode financial security when victims are not prepared to challenge the instructions or verify the source independently.
Police Response and Investigation
Police have opened an investigation and are tracing the transfers and account activity associated with the incident. ACP Azli Mohd Noor emphasized the importance of reporting such cases promptly, as early notification can improve the chances of recovering funds and catching the perpetrators. Law enforcement agencies are coordinating with financial institutions to monitor suspicious transactions and flag anomalies linked to similar scams.
How Phone Scams Work
Phone scams often begin with unsolicited calls that claim to be from banks, government bodies, or trusted institutions. The fraudsters may use social engineering tactics, spoofing numbers or exploiting emotional triggers like fear of penalties or urgency to act. They frequently request personal information, codes, or one-time passwords, and instruct victims to transfer funds to temporary accounts or to reveal security details that enable unauthorized access.
Protective Measures for Seniors and Families
- Verify independently: End calls and contact the institution using official numbers from their website or statements.
- Do not share codes or OTPs: Treat bank verification codes as confidential and never disclose them to anyone.
- Pause and consult: If unsure, discuss with family members or trusted advisers before making financial transfers.
- Register for alerts: Enable banking notifications and report suspicious activity immediately.
- Report promptly: Notify local police and your bank as soon as a scam is suspected to increase recovery chances.
Public Awareness and Support
Authorities remind residents that scammers often target older adults due to perceived vulnerability. Community groups, financial institutions, and law enforcement are encouraged to collaborate on education campaigns that teach people how to recognize red flags and protect themselves. Local media coverage and public seminars can provide practical steps to minimize risk and support victims after incidents occur.
What This Means for the Community
While RM88,000 is a substantial loss for a retiree and his spouse, the incident serves as a cautionary tale about the pervasiveness of phone scams. It also highlights the need for stronger preventive measures, timely reporting, and robust recovery options offered by banks and authorities. By raising awareness and sharing protective strategies, communities can reduce the financial and emotional toll of fraud on seniors and families.
