On 29 April 2024, the New Straits Times (NST) reported that Johor police had managed to put an end to the investment scam syndicate by arresting 19 individuals.
By putting an end to this scam syndicate, the police are sending a clear message that scamming people out of their money won’t be tolerated.
These syndicates displayed a remarkable level of organization and professionalism by turning three fenced and guarded rental homes into call centres.
The syndicate hires call agents for RM2500 per month and supervisors to manage the call centres for RM7000 per month.
Each of the syndicate members was trained in the art of deception, often using convincing narratives and false promises to lure unsuspecting individuals into their schemes.
The syndicate works by targeting local and international victims through various social media platforms, including Telegram, TikTok, and WeChat.
Our Advice
Moving forward, everyone needs to stay vigilant and cautious when it comes to investing money. Remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. By staying informed and asking questions, we can protect ourselves from falling victim to investment scams in the future.
Avoiding investment scams requires a combination of caution, scepticism, and due diligence. Here are some key ways to protect yourself:
- Research and Verify: Before investing in any opportunity, thoroughly research the company or individual offering the investment. Verify their credentials, check if they are registered with relevant regulatory authorities, and look for any red flags or negative reviews online.
- Beware of High Returns: Be wary of investment opportunities that promise unusually high returns with little or no risk. Remember the old adage, “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” High returns typically come with high risks, and legitimate investment opportunities are unlikely to guarantee quick and substantial profits.
- Watch Out for Pressure Tactics: Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to rush you into making a decision. They may claim that the opportunity is available for a limited time only or pressure you to invest quickly without giving you time to do proper research. Take your time and don’t succumb to pressure tactics.
- Understand the Investment: Make sure you fully understand the investment opportunity, including how it works, the potential risks involved, and how your money will be used. If something seems overly complex or difficult to understand, it could be a sign of a scam.
- Verify Contact Information: Scammers often use fake contact information or impersonate legitimate companies or individuals. Verify the contact information provided to you independently, rather than relying solely on what the person offering the investment tells you.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consider seeking advice from a qualified financial advisor or investment professional before making any investment decisions. They can provide valuable guidance and help you assess the legitimacy of investment opportunities.
- Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date on common investment scams and fraud trends. Being aware of the tactics used by scammers can help you recognize potential scams and avoid falling victim to them.
By following these tips and exercising caution, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to investment scams and protect your hard-earned money.
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Source:
Police arrest 19 people believed to be involved in investment scam syndicate
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