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(Bandar Seri Begawan, 18th) The Cyber Crime Investigation Section of the Criminal Investigation Department, Royal Brunei Police Force, reminds the public of a recent surge in “Macau scam” cases, which involve impersonation of bank staff and police officers, causing significant financial losses.
These scams typically begin with someone impersonating a bank employee, calling and claiming that the victim’s account has outstanding credit card payments or suspicious transactions. The call is then “transferred” to another scammer masquerading as a police officer, stating that the victim’s bank account is involved in criminal activities.
The scammers then ask victims to provide personal information and instruct them to transfer funds for so-called “security” purposes, while warning them not to inform others and to communicate only through WhatsApp. In some cases, victims are even asked to withdraw cash and hand it over to strangers for “safekeeping.”
The police note that victims are often targeted during working hours, including elderly individuals who are home alone. The Cyber Crime Investigation Section therefore urges the public to remain highly vigilant to avoid falling victim to scams.
The police remind everyone never to share personal details—such as bank account information or ID numbers—with strangers. If you receive a suspicious call, stay calm and verify it by contacting the bank or calling the 993 hotline (not via social media platforms). The public should also avoid transferring money to, or handing it over to, strangers.
Any victims should immediately contact their bank to freeze the transaction and report to the police. The authorities emphasize that anyone who assists scammers, including by lending SIM cards or bank accounts, may also be prosecuted.
The Royal Brunei Police Force urges the public to share anti-scam information with family members, especially children and the elderly, as they are often the main targets of scammers.
The force stated: “Prevention, raising awareness, staying vigilant, and working together are key to combating the ‘Macau Scam.’”