DAP man urges vigilance after credit card scam costs woman nearly RM10,000

Kong with Lim.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 24: A woman, who only wished to be known as ‘Madam Lim’, became the latest victim of a scam where nearly RM10,000 was charged to her credit card without her knowledge or consent.

According to a statement, Democratic Action Party’s (DAP) Michael Kong Feng Nian said the victim had lodged a dispute with the Financial Markets Ombudsman Service and is now awaiting the outcome of their decision.

“However, despite the dispute being ongoing, Madam Lim is still required to deal with the immediate burden of the disputed credit card charges.

“For an ordinary employee, this causes significant financial stress and unnecessary anxiety, even though she is clearly a victim,” said Kong, who is also the special assistant to Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen.

He added that scammers often impersonate banks, government departments or enforcement authorities, using fear and urgency to pressure victims into complying before they have time to verify the information.

“I would like to take this opportunity to issue a public service announcement to everyone. Do not trust phone calls, messages or emails that claim to be from banks or authorities, no matter how convincing they may sound. Never act based solely on what is said over the phone.

“If you receive such a call, hang up and contact the official helpline of the bank or authority using the number listed on their official website or your bank card. Do not use any contact details provided by the caller. Taking a few extra minutes to verify can save you from months or even years of financial hardship.

“When it comes to protecting your finances, it is always better to be safe than sorry,” he said.

Kong also said he will continue to follow up on Lim’s case, providing assistance whenever he can to ensure that her rights as a consumer are protected. — DayakDaily