Malaysia Sees RM2.7 Billion Lost to Online Scams, January–November 2025

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has reported a surge in online crime, recording 67,735 cases nationwide between January and November this year, with losses surpassing RM2.7 billion. 

According to Bukit Aman’s Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID), telecommunications scams remain the most prevalent, followed by e‑commerce fraud and non‑existent investment schemes. Loan scams, e‑finance fraud, and romance scams also contributed significantly to the overall tally.

Breakdown of Cases

• Telecommunications scams: 28,698 cases
• E-commerce fraud: 14,881 cases
• Non-existent investment schemes: 9,296 cases
• Non-existent loan scams: 8,029 cases
• E-finance fraud: 5,853 cases
• Love scams: 978 cases

Financial Impact

• Fake investments: RM1.37 billion lost — the largest contributor
• Telecommunications scams: RM715.7 million
• E-finance fraud: RM458.1 million
• E-commerce fraud: RM123.7 million
• Loan scams: RM59.1 million
• Love scams: RM43.7 million

PDRM urges the public to act immediately if targeted — contact banks to block suspicious transactions.

In October, the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) reported 2,039 complaints and enquiries on unlicensed investment activities and scams in the first half of 2025.

BrokersView Reminds You

Scammers are increasingly sophisticated, exploiting social media platforms and AI technology to commit fraud. Verify before investing — check with regulators and avoid offers that promise quick returns. Prevention is critical — once money is transferred to fraudulent accounts, recovery is often impossible.