Losses from online scam crimes nearly doubled to RM2.97 billion in 2025, up from RM1.57 billion a year earlier, as cybercriminals intensified their use of sophisticated tactics to target victims nationwide.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said non-existent investment scams accounted for the largest share of losses at RM1.47 billion.
A total of 66,204 online scam cases were recorded last year, representing an 87% increase from 35,368 cases in 2024.
Phone scams remained the most prevalent form of fraud, with 28,388 cases reported during the year.
Mohd Khalid said the figures represented more than just statistics, as thousands of victims had lost their savings, livelihoods and future prospects to scam syndicates.
He warned that fraud syndicates are continuously evolving their modus operandi by exploiting technological advancements and modern communication platforms.
“As such, prevention efforts, education and digital security awareness must be strengthened continuously,” he said.
Mohd Khalid also welcomed the introduction of the PB Scam Rangers programme, a collaboration between the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) and Public Bank, aimed at improving financial literacy and cybersecurity awareness among Malaysians.
He said public education remains one of the most effective tools in building a society that is more alert, informed and resilient against increasingly sophisticated scam threats.
