RM90,380 Lost Over Three Months to Social Media Investment Scam

A 53-year-old housewife in Pahang lost RM90,380 after being drawn into a prolonged online investment scam over three months.

The scam began on 5 August last year when the woman, a single mother, came across an investment advertisement on social media. The offer promised high returns within just a few hours. Such claims are a common warning sign, yet they continue to lure victims amid rising financial pressure and online exposure.

After clicking the advertisement, she was contacted by an individual claiming to represent the investment scheme. The plan was described as capable of generating profits within two to three hours. Encouraged by the promise of fast gains, the woman agreed to participate.

She was asked to complete an online form and provide sensitive personal information, including her identity card and bank details. This step gave the scammers direct access to her financial profile and allowed the operation to continue unchecked.

Over nearly three months, the woman was instructed to make repeated payments. From 9 August to 27 October, she carried out 27 separate transfers to multiple bank accounts. In total, RM90,380 was sent. Authorities believe the use of different accounts was deliberate, making it harder to track the money once suspicion arose.

Despite the steady flow of payments, no profits were ever received. Each transfer was followed by new demands, a pattern often used to keep victims engaged while draining remaining funds. The scam only became clear when the woman ran out of money and could no longer reach the people behind the scheme.

With communication abruptly cut off, she reported the case to the Pekan district police headquarters. The matter is now being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which covers cheating and dishonest inducement.

This case highlights a dangerous shift in online investment fraud. Many scams no longer rely on a single payment. Instead, they unfold over weeks or months, slowly eroding savings while maintaining the illusion of legitimacy. Social media platforms have become a key entry point, allowing scammers to reach victims quickly and repeatedly.

Financial crime specialists warn that any investment offer promising high returns in a short time should be treated as an immediate threat. Requests for personal details or early payments are clear red flags. Once funds are transferred, recovery is rare.

Authorities continue to urge the public to act quickly at the first sign of fraud. Delays can be costly. In todays digital landscape, hesitation can protect savings, while haste can wipe them out.