Cybercrime losses in Malaysia have reached alarming levels, with online fraud causing RM2.97 billion in financial damage during 2025. This represents a sharp escalation from RM1.57 billion recorded in 2024—a jump of RM1.40 billion in just one year, signalling an intensifying challenge for authorities and the public alike.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail revealed these figures at the launch of the "Combat Scam: Two Teams, One Goal" campaign here today. Among the various fraud categories, investment scams emerged as the most costly, inflicting RM1.47 billion in losses. Meanwhile, telephone-based scams dominated in volume, with 28,388 cases reported during the year.

The overall number of reported online fraud incidents climbed dramatically to 66,204 cases in 2025, representing an 87 per cent surge from 35,368 cases the previous year. Tan Sri Mohd Khalid emphasised that these figures reflect far more than mere statistics—they represent thousands of Malaysians whose financial security and prospects have been devastated by organised crime networks.

Fraud syndicates are becoming increasingly sophisticated, leveraging technological innovations and digital communication platforms to refine their deceptive schemes. In response, law enforcement has prioritised prevention and public education, recognising that building societal awareness of digital security risks is essential to combating these threats.

The police force has partnered with Public Bank Berhad through the PB Scam Rangers Programme, a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing financial literacy and cybersecurity understanding among Malaysians. Tan Sri Mohd Khalid stressed that through sustained public education initiatives, Malaysia can develop a more informed and resilient population capable of recognising and resisting various scam tactics.