AmBank raises awareness on scams through engaging mini-series

AmBank has taken a bold step in addressing the alarming rise of financial scams in Malaysia with its new social media mini-series, Ringgit Thieves. This initiative forms part of the broader #JanganKenaScam campaign led by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the National Scam Taskforce, and key banking associations such as the Association of Banks in Malaysia (ABM) and the Association of Islamic Banking and Financial Institutions Malaysia (AIBIM).

The campaign aims to educate the public on the tactics scammers use and encourage vigilance in an increasingly digital world.

Through the lens of gripping storytelling, Ringgit Thieves showcases the risks of scams such as investment fraud, love scams, identity theft, and other deceitful schemes. By adopting the perspective of scammers themselves, AmBank seeks to engage Malaysians in a unique and impactful way.

Episodes Highlight Real-World Scenarios

The eight-part series has already aired five episodes, each diving into different facets of scam operations and preventative measures.

• “The Turnaround” introduces viewers to a seemingly successful businessman who is revealed to be a fraudster, setting the tone for the series.
• “The Password” emphasizes the importance of robust online security by showcasing how scammers exploit weak passwords. Practical tips for creating stronger passwords are shared.
• “The Calls” exposes how even the smartest individuals can fall victim to phone-based scams, urging Malaysians to decline suspicious calls.
• “Love Hurts” sheds light on vulnerable individuals falling prey to online romance scams, encouraging the public to block unknown numbers.
• “The Marketplace” warns against impulsive online purchases and highlights the importance of verifying sellers and reading reviews.

Each episode blends education with compelling narratives, making the lessons relatable and memorable.

Amplifying the #JanganKenaScam Message

AmBank’s Group CEO, Jamie Ling, underscored the urgency of tackling cyber financial crime, which continues to exploit human and technological vulnerabilities. Ling emphasized that the mini-series is not just about awareness but also about empowering Malaysians to resist scams.

“An informed society is tougher to scam. While we had fun producing these mini-series internally, our message is a serious one that affects many of us personally.” Ling stated, urging Malaysians to amplify the campaign’s message.

The initiative also aligns with broader national efforts to curb scams. In 2024 alone, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) removed over 32,000 fraudulent contents online. Despite such measures, Malaysians have lost over RM3.18 billion to scams between 2021 and April 2024, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and education.

With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) transforming the media landscape, risks such as deepfake technology, misinformation, and online fraud have become more prevalent. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasized the importance of safeguarding the digital ecosystem from these threats. Initiatives like Ringgit Thieves play a crucial role in this effort by educating the public on how to recognize and resist scams.