Festive Cheer, Hidden Threat: Minister Warns of Rising Scams This Chinese New Year

As Chinese New Year approaches, Malaysians are being urged to stay alert against a surge in scams that typically accompany the festive season. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has warned that fraudsters are likely to exploit increased spending and higher cash withdrawals during this period.

Speaking at the Chinese New Year Open House and Zone 6 Donation Handover Ceremony at Pasar Pagi Taman Sri Sentosa in Lembah Pantai, Fahmi highlighted that scammers are well aware of seasonal financial activity. He noted that many families withdraw savings to prepare angpow for relatives, creating opportunities for criminals seeking to intercept or misappropriate funds.

According to Fahmi, individuals celebrating the festival may become prime targets as scammers take advantage of the higher volume of transactions. He stressed that those who suspect they have been deceived must act immediately. Victims are advised to contact the National Scam Response Centre through its hotline, 997, without delay.

He explained that reports made within 30 minutes of a fraudulent transaction significantly improve the chances of blocking the transfer of funds. The National Scam Response Centre can coordinate with financial institutions to freeze suspicious accounts and attempt to recover the money before it is moved further.

The minister reiterated a simple but critical message: offers that appear too good to be true are usually fraudulent. He cautioned that investment scams and schemes involving gambling elements tend to rise during festive seasons. Such schemes often promise quick profits or guaranteed returns, playing on the desire for additional income during celebrations.

Citing data from the Commercial Crime Investigation Department, Fahmi said authorities have identified between 13 and 14 common scam categories currently circulating. Among them are cases involving deepfake technology, where fraudsters manipulate audio or video to impersonate prominent figures endorsing fake investment opportunities. These videos are designed to create a false sense of credibility and urgency.

He also warned of scam groups operating on Telegram. In these groups, victims are shown fabricated screenshots or testimonials suggesting that other members have received rapid returns from certain investments. The illusion of widespread success is used to pressure individuals into transferring funds.

Another area of concern involves suspicious SMS messages containing links. Fahmi noted that telecommunications companies are no longer permitted to send messages with embedded links, following directives from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. He explained that scam messages are often distributed in crowded locations such as LRT and KTM stations, where large numbers of people gather and mobile usage is high.

The warning comes at a time when digital transactions continue to increase across Malaysia. While online banking and e wallets provide convenience, they also create new entry points for fraud. Criminals frequently adapt their methods, altering scripts and tactics to stay ahead of enforcement measures.

Beyond the anti scam message, Fahmi, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Lembah Pantai, announced festive assistance for local residents. Nearly 700 individuals from the B40 and M40 income groups received vouchers worth RM150 each to support their Chinese New Year preparations.

He also introduced a community ambulance service in Lembah Pantai, operating at a nominal cost of RM1 per use. The initiative was launched in collaboration with social activist Kuan Chee Heng, widely known as Uncle Kentang, and aims to improve access to emergency transport for residents.

While festive aid and community programmes bring relief to many households, the ministers primary message remained clear. Celebrations should not lead to complacency. Heightened spending and financial movement create an environment that scammers are quick to exploit.

For Malaysians preparing to celebrate, vigilance is essential. Verify investment opportunities through official channels, avoid clicking on unfamiliar links, and respond swiftly if suspicious activity occurs. In a season defined by generosity and reunion, safeguarding ones finances has become just as important as preparing the angpow envelopes.