Cops warn public over sophisticated phone scams using Caller ID Spoofing

AUTHORITIES have uncovered a surge in phone scams in which criminals manipulate Caller ID systems to display numbers appearing to originate from local telecommunications networks or legitimate agencies.

The tactic, known as Caller ID Spoofing, is used solely to deceive victims and cultivate trust in fraudulent calls, according to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Commercial Crime Investigation Department (JSJK).

Last year, the police opened 5,097 investigations into phone scams, with total reported losses exceeding RM241 million.

JSJK director Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa highlighted that as technology and the internet become central to daily life, criminals are increasingly exploiting these tools to perpetrate fraud.

“Modus operandi involves calls from suspects impersonating representatives of enforcement agencies such as the police, the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), and the courts,” Rusdi explained.

“Other impersonations include financial institutions, government agencies like the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM).”

He described how victims are often connected to another individual posing as an official, who claims their bank accounts are implicated in illegal activities such as money laundering, drugs, or tax arrears.

“Victims are threatened not to disclose the matter to others and only realise they have been duped after discovering their funds missing and failing to reconnect with the suspect,” Rusdi said.

Although Caller ID Spoofing is employed, he clarified that the scams do not involve hacking or breaching the national telecommunications network.

“So far, there are no reports or information suggesting any insider involvement from telecommunication companies with these syndicates,” he added.

The fraudsters operate using foreign platforms that allow number manipulation without the owner’s consent.

Rusdi urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid providing personal, financial, or payment information over the phone without verification.

“Confirmation should be made directly with the relevant agency or institution through official channels,” he said.

Throughout the past year, authorities arrested 1,504 individuals to assist investigations and prosecutions.

JSJK continues to strengthen strategic cooperation with telecommunications providers and relevant agencies to detect, block, and take firm action against phone scam syndicates.

Numbers used by these scams are reported to MCMC for follow-up action, and the public is encouraged to check suspicious phone numbers, bank accounts, and company names via the official SemakMule portal at semakmule.rmp.gov.my.

Rusdi expressed concern that public awareness of cybercrime remains low. “People are easily deceived due to a lack of knowledge and care in managing personal information,” he said.

JSJK runs proactive awareness initiatives including crime prevention campaigns, talks, exhibitions, ‘meet & greet’ sessions, and media outreach.

In total, 14,593 cybercrime prevention activities were conducted last year, emphasizing the importance of verifying information before any financial transaction or digital communication.

“The Royal Malaysia Police do not compromise on those involved in fraudulent crimes. The public is reminded not to disclose personal or banking information to third parties.

“Offences can be investigated under Sections 420, 424A, 424B, 424C of the Penal Code and the Computer Crimes Act 1997,” he stated.

Rusdi stressed that collaboration with MCMC and Bank Negara Malaysia remains ongoing to safeguard citizens’ financial security. - January 25, 2026