Abstract：A 74-year-old American consultant in Kuala Lumpur lost over RM600,000 after being lured into a fraudulent investment scheme via messaging apps. The scam involved multiple platforms, staged fund transfers to numerous bank accounts, and ultimately blocked withdrawals, highlighting the growing sophistication of online investment fraud and the importance of verification and caution.
A 74-year-old American consultant and part-time university lecturer has reportedly lost more than RM600,000 after falling victim to an online investment scam in Kuala Lumpur. The case adds to a growing list of fraud incidents involving schemes promoted through messaging platforms, which continue to target individuals across age groups and professions.
According to Wangsa Maju police chief Assistant Commissioner Mohamad Lazim Ismail, authorities received a report from the victim at approximately 10.40am on Feb 20. Initial investigations indicate that the victim had joined an investment programme on Nov 26 last year through an application known as Moo Moo Chat. What appeared to be a legitimate opportunity soon evolved into a carefully orchestrated deception.
Police said the victim was later contacted by a woman via WhatsApp, who allegedly guided him through the supposed investment process. As part of the scheme, the victim was persuaded to download another application called Bos Pro, which was presented as a necessary platform for managing investments and tracking returns. The transition between multiple apps is a tactic frequently observed in similar scams, designed to create an illusion of credibility and operational sophistication.
Over time, the victim was instructed to carry out a series of fund transfers into numerous bank accounts. In total, RM664,278 was transferred across 11 different accounts. Such fragmented payment instructions are widely regarded by investigators as a major warning sign, often associated with fraudulent operations seeking to complicate fund tracing and recovery.
Suspicion arose only when the victim attempted to withdraw the promised profits on Jan 30. When no funds were released and communication patterns changed, he realised that the investment scheme was not genuine. A police report was subsequently lodged, prompting a formal investigation.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, with inquiries still ongoing. Authorities have reiterated the importance of exercising caution when encountering investment offers online, particularly those shared through messaging applications or social media channels.
Police have also urged the public to avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or transferring money to unknown accounts without proper verification. In many scam cases, victims are initially presented with convincing narratives and professional-looking interfaces, making early detection difficult. As digital fraud tactics continue to evolve, vigilance and independent verification remain essential safeguards against financial loss.
