Fake Government Aid Scams Are Wiping Out Elderly Savings

Fake Government Aid Scams Are Wiping Out Elderly Savings

Abstract:

A 78-year-old man lost RM100,000 in savings accumulated over a lifetime after falling victim to a carefully orchestrated fake government aid scheme.

A disturbing fraud case in Pahang has once again exposed how ruthless and calculated modern scams have become, particularly those targeting elderly citizens. In a matter of hours, a 78-year-old man lost RM100,000 in savings accumulated over a lifetime after falling victim to a carefully orchestrated fake government aid scheme. The incident occurred on 18 December and is now under active police investigation.

Authorities confirmed that the victim was approached by two unidentified men at an eatery near Bera, a public setting chosen to make the encounter appear safe and routine. The suspects posed as individuals linked to government assistance programmes, exploiting the publics trust in official institutions. This initial contact was not rushed or aggressive, suggesting a deliberate attempt to build comfort and credibility.

To strengthen their story, the men handed the victim RM500, presenting it as government aid. This small sum proved to be a powerful psychological tool, convincing the elderly man that the offer was genuine. Once trust was secured, the suspects introduced a second, far more dangerous proposal, which was to participate in a so-called government-sponsored programme that promised extraordinary financial returns.

The scheme was described as an exclusive opportunity requiring an upfront payment. The suspects claimed that a contribution of RM100,000 would generate a 20 per cent return every month, an unrealistic figure by any legitimate investment standard. However, the repeated references to government backing masked these red flags and created a false sense of security.

The situation escalated rapidly. The suspects escorted the victim to a bank, where he withdrew his entire savings. After receiving the cash, the men vanished without a trace, leaving the victim alone and financially devastated. By the time the deception became clear, the money and the perpetrators were gone.

Temerloh District Police Chief ACP Mohd Nasyim Bahron confirmed that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. Police are working to identify the suspects, but recovery of the funds remains uncertain. Such cases often result in permanent financial loss, underscoring the severe consequences of these crimes.

This incident is not an isolated event but part of a growing pattern. Scammers are increasingly using government-related narratives, face-to-face interactions, and small upfront payments to disarm suspicion. Elderly individuals, many of whom rely on savings rather than active income, are especially vulnerable. The emotional and financial impact can be irreversible.

Read this article to learn more about scams that commonly target the elderly:

Show This to Your Elderly Loved Ones | Online Scams Are Emptying Seniors’ Life Savings

Many older victims stay silent after being defrauded, restrained by shame, confusion, or a failure to recognise the deception. This silence leaves them highly vulnerable to investment scams.

News 2025-12-16

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Authorities stress that genuine government assistance never requires large advance payments and does not promise guaranteed or unusually high returns. Any offer involving cash handovers or urgent decisions should be treated as a warning sign and verified directly with official agencies.

Families and caregivers play a critical role in prevention. Readers are strongly urged to share this case with elderly parents, relatives, and neighbours. A simple conversation could prevent devastating losses. Awareness is the most effective defence, and spreading this warning may stop the next victim from losing everything they worked for.