In a statement today, Penang police chief Hamzah Ahmad said the 47-year-old interior designer came across a Facebook advertisement in early April offering quick profits, and later communicated with a woman, posing as a representative, via WhatsApp.

He said the victim was instructed to download an app called CSECdt, register and begin investing.

Hamzah said the victim made seven bank transfers to different company accounts between April 11 and June 3, only realising it was a scam when she was asked to pay RM200,000 in taxes to withdraw her supposed RM2 million profit.

He said the woman then filed a police report, which is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.

Hamzah urged the public to verify investment schemes with Bank Negara Malaysia or the Securities Commission before investing.

“Online schemes promising high returns are very risky. Don’t fall for scammers hiding behind social media platforms,” he said.