Scammers Exploit Khazanah Nasional Berhad's Official Logo to Steal Savings

Reports that criminals are misusing the name and logo of Malaysias sovereign wealth fund, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, to promote fraudulent investment schemes have intensified public concern and sparked debate about the growing risks faced by ordinary investors. These incidents point to an increasingly worrying trend in which scammers exploit the reputation of well-established institutions to create a false sense of trust and draw unsuspecting individuals into financial harm.

Khazanah Nasional has confirmed that its identity has been used without permission by individuals running fake online investment groups. In a message published on its official Instagram account, the fund stated that it does not operate any form of investment community and does not seek investments from members of the public. It urged Malaysians to be extra vigilant and to verify all investment-related claims, stressing that fraudsters are becoming bolder in misusing the names of reputable organisations to mislead potential victims. The funds warning adds weight to the broader concern that even national institutions are now being drawn into the tactics of these networks.

A recent case illustrates the real and immediate impact of this trend. A civil servant lost RM10500 after falling victim to a scheme that had falsely presented itself as an investment initiative backed by the sovereign wealth fund. Tangkak District Police Chief Superintendent Roslan Mohd Talib explained that the fifty-year-old victim lodged a report after realising that the promises of fast and generous returns were nothing more than a deception. The scammers had even given assurances that his capital would be returned, a tactic commonly used to disarm scepticism and create the illusion of safety.

Investigations revealed that the victim had been added to a Telegram group on 3 December that used the name and logo of Khazanah Nasional without authorisation. The group advertised what appeared to be exclusive and profitable investment opportunities. Convinced of their legitimacy, the victim made three transactions into two separate bank accounts, which authorities now believe were mule accounts created to collect illicit funds.

Superintendent Roslan stated that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which deals with cheating and fraudulent inducement. Those found guilty may face up to ten years in prison, whipping and a fine. He warned that fraudulent investment schemes have become more sophisticated, making it harder for the public to recognise them at an early stage.

Police have repeatedly cautioned the public about offers that promise very high returns for very little effort, particularly when these offers come with claims of quick payouts. Such schemes, Roslan said, should raise immediate concern. He urged the public to conduct proper checks on platforms and individuals before committing their money, especially when the invitation arrives through messaging applications or other unverified channels.

Authorities also advise the public to keep themselves informed about current scam tactics through official sources. The Commercial Crime Investigation Department regularly updates its Facebook, Instagram and TikTok pages with examples of ongoing scams and educational materials to help people identify warning signs.

Those who believe they may have been targeted or have already transferred money are encouraged to contact the National Scam Response Centre at 997 without delay. Early reporting increases the chances of stopping further transfers and may assist authorities in tracing the culprits.

The misuse of Khazanahs identity serves as a clear warning that no institution is immune to exploitation by fraudsters. As criminals continue to imitate trusted organisations, the need for public awareness becomes even more urgent. Staying informed, questioning suspicious offers and reporting cases quickly are essential steps in preventing further losses and strengthening the collective defence against increasingly sophisticated scams.