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'Beware scratch-and-win scams when in Malaysia'
At least 38 Singaporeans have lost tens of thousands of dollars to the conmen
Published on Jan 6, 2012
By Hazlin Hassan, Malaysia Correspondent
KUALA LUMPUR - The authorities in Malaysia have warned Singaporeans to avoid falling for a scratch-and-win scam which conned at least 38 Singaporeans out of tens of thousands of dollars in recent months.
Conmen have been targeting foreigners as they get people to scratch lucky draw cards. The victims invariably 'win' a small prize, but are persuaded to pay money for the chance to win bigger prizes.
'These scams are very common. Singaporeans don't know about these tricks so they get conned,' said Datuk Michael Chong, the head of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) public services and complaints bureau. The bureau handles complaints from members of the public, on things such as loan sharks and business problems.
BACKGROUND STORY
Victims are told they have won a prize, usually cheap electrical goods or water filters, and that they stand to win more if they pay money. Many are persuaded to hand over between RM6,000 (S$2,500) and RM30,000 using their credit cards.
Added Mr Chong: 'The victims usually say they were charmed, forced or threatened.'
Read the full story in Friday's edition of The Straits Times.
