These were among the common modus operandi of “pukau” scammers investigated by the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) last year. “In some cases, the scammers may claim the victim’s money or valuables are ‘problematic’ and need to be ‘cleansed’,” said Comm Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa (pic). The Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director said suspects typically approach victims at random in public places such as markets, banking premises and parking areas. “Based on reported cases, these scams are carried out using communication techniques, psychological pressure and well-planned acting. “I want to stress that ‘pukau’ scams refer to acts of deception, trickery and psychological manipulation that lead victims to voluntarily surrender their valuables,” he said.

Source: The Star March 31, 2026 01:10 UTC