KUCHING: Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen has called for swift and decisive action by authorities following a disturbing case of online harassment involving a local man whose personal data was misused after a failed scam attempt.
Chong said the victim, identified only as Kenny, had contacted him for assistance after suffering sustained harassment from an online scammer who initially posed as a loan provider.
“On 2 June, Kenny received several WhatsApp calls and messages from an individual claiming to offer loans. However, after a few exchanges, Kenny realised it was a scam and stopped responding,” said Chong.
Despite ending communication, the scammer allegedly managed to access Kenny’s phone contact list and began harassing not only Kenny but also his wife, parents, in-laws, and siblings. According to Chong, Kenny had never shared his relatives’ contact information with the caller.
“What is alarming is that the scammer somehow obtained the numbers of Kenny’s family members and began calling and messaging them using various phone numbers. This is a serious invasion of privacy,” Chong stated.
“Kenny suspects that his phone may have been hacked during the WhatsApp exchanges. The continued harassment has caused him significant stress and embarrassment,” Chong added.
Chong said he assisted Kenny in filing a formal complaint with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) this morning and urged the authorities to act swiftly.
“This kind of online terrorism and bullying is illegal and deeply troubling. It can happen to anyone. The authorities must take strong action to prevent others from becoming victims,” he stressed.
Chong also reiterated the importance of public awareness and cyber hygiene, warning that no one is immune to such attacks in today’s digital age.
By Connie Chieng