Kota Kinabalu: Cyber Intelligence Consultant Teh Chuan Khoon said one of the most effective ways to avoid phone scammers is to refrain from immediately returning calls from unknown numbers.
He recommended waiting at least five minutes before calling back. Even then, it is safer to let the other party speak first to identify themselves, which reduces the risk of engaging with automated or scam calls.
“If it is a genuine call, the caller will identify themselves. Friends and known contacts will be able to provide clarification,” he said during the Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKCCCI) Cyber Scam and Prevention Seminar on Saturday.
Teh suggested another method to avoid falling victim to scams: recognising fake identities. Scammers often impersonate figures of authority, such as policemen, banks, or government agencies.
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