Image for illustration purposes only. — Image from Pixabay

KOTA MARUDU (Jan 29): Police here have detected an increase in fraudulent cases via Facebook Marketplace.

The cases involve the buying and selling of non-existent cars and motorcycles, as well as online investments with total losses exceeding RM35,000.

Kota Marudu police chief Supt Simiun Lomudin said the Kota Marudu District Commercial Crime Investigation Division found the victims were from various backgrounds, including civil servants, mostly from around the Pitas District.

“Initial investigations found that the suspects would advertise goods or vehicles at very low prices to attract the victims before contacting them via WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.

“The low-price tactic was used as bait to make the victims believe the offer,” he said in a statement.

Simiun said the victims were then instructed to make payments to a specific bank account for various reasons such as booking deposits, insurance, shipping costs, or taxes.

“After payment has been made, the suspects could not be contacted, all forms of communication were cut off, while the advertisements were deleted to avoid detection.

“The same modus operandi was used in several cases by using fake social media accounts and different phone numbers.

“Every transaction only takes place online without physical contact, making it difficult for victims to trace the real identity of the suspect,” he said.

Simiun stressed that members of the public need to be more careful when dealing with online buying and selling platforms, especially when faced with offers at cheaper prices compared to the current market.

He advised users to check the background of sellers, read reviews from other buyers, and choose safe payment methods.

He also encouraged buyers to deal face-to-face or use platforms that provide transaction protection.

“Avoid making advance payments without valid confirmation or solid evidence regarding the existence of the goods.

“If faced with a suspicious situation, stop the transaction immediately and do not share banking information or personal details,” he said.

Simiun also urged victims to come forward and file a police report immediately to assist with the investigation and detect the syndicate involved.






The post Fraud on Facebook Marketplace sees Kota Marudu folk lose over RM35,000 appeared first on Borneo Post Online.

 Borneo Post Online

📈 Looking for Ways to Grow Your Savings?

After budgeting or planning your property expenses, explore smarter investing options like REITs and stocks for long-term growth.

📈 Start Trading Smarter with moomoo Malaysia →

(Sponsored — Trade REITs & stocks with professional tools)