BEWARE OF “QR CODE” AND “REWARD POINTS” SCAMS

The public is advised to be vigilant of 2 scam tactics that are now being used to steal money from bank accounts.

QR CODE SCAM

Be wary of anything claiming to want to reward you. It may be a scam.

In a new QR code phishing scam that’s now making the rounds, scammers would distribute gifts (eg: water bottles) with QR codes printed on them. You are told that scanning these codes will reward you with cash vouchers worth RM200. When scanned, the QR code allows scammers to drain your bank account.

Federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf warned of this at a press conference recently.

“REWARD POINTS” TEXT MESSAGES SCAM

Another scam that has resurfaced is the tactic of sending text messages claiming to be from telecommunication companies. Victims have reported receiving text messages purportedly from well-known telecommunications companies such as Maxis, Celcom, and Digi.

“The content of these text messages informs the victim that their reward points are about to expire and urges them to immediately redeem these reward points via the provided link. Upon clicking the link, victims are prompted to enter their online banking information, including the received OTP number. Subsequently, victims discover a reduction in funds from their bank accounts,” Ramli revealed (NST, 20.4.24).

Never exchange banking information or one-time password numbers with any unfamiliar parties. Verify suspicious messages with the relevant telecommunications company before taking any action.