In a report in The Star, MCA Public Services and Complaints Bureau chairman Jason Teoh said loan sharks were now sending links to gambling websites via WhatsApp.

Clicking the link would bring the individual to virtual game rooms to play games of blackjack and baccarat. Bets in these rooms were monitored by the site administrators, who would usually let newcomers win a few times in succession in order to generate a “feel good” optimism of more winnings to come.

“Once a customer wins several times, someone will invite him or her out for a drink at a club or bar to ‘congratulate’ them on their winnings,” Teoh told the Star.

He said the Ah Long would become friends with the customers and goad them into accepting loans to place even bigger bets, advising the victims to ride on their luck and chase bigger returns.

“The victim tends to fall into their trap and agree because of the feel good factor,” the English daily quoted Teoh as saying.

Teoh said it was common for people desperate for money to put up their property as collateral against their loans, which presented a tricky situation as Ah Longs were “very professional” these days.

“They will ask their lawyers to draw up legal documents for the victim to sign. And once the victim fails to make the payment, the property is gone in the blink of an eye,” Teoh said.

He added that he anticipated more incoming complaints on loan sharks in view of the upcoming festive period.