Malaysia

Love scams claim losses of RM3.5 million in first month of 2026

Women most affected as authorities warn public to exercise caution amid rising online romance fraud

Updated 5 months ago · Published on 22 Feb 2026 1:27PM

Love scams claim losses of RM3.5 million in first month of 2026
Approximately 72 per cent of victims of these love scams are aged between 30 and 50 years - February 22, 2026

AUTHORITIES recorded RM3.5 million in losses from love scams during January, according to the latest data from the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (JSJK).

JSJK director Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa revealed that 100 cases were reported last month, compared with 95 cases in January 2025, which had resulted in losses of RM4.9 million.

“Women continue to be the most frequent victims, accounting for 60 per cent of the total cases, while the remainder are men,” he said in a statement today.

“Approximately 72 per cent of victims of these love scams are aged between 30 and 50 years.”

The director urged the public to remain vigilant and to verify any suspicious interactions through the official PDRM Semak Mule portal at [https://semakmule.rmp.gov.my](https://semakmule.rmp.gov.my).

The warning comes amid ongoing concerns about online romance scams, which continue to exploit trust and emotional vulnerability, particularly among middle-aged adults, and result in significant financial losses.

Authorities emphasised the importance of public awareness and proactive measures to prevent falling victim to fraudulent schemes that often operate across borders. - February 22, 2026

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