How many senior citizens have fallen victim to online scams since 2021?

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Senior Citizens Targeted by Online Scams Since 2021

Between 2021 and May 19, 2024, a total of 6,523 senior citizens have fallen victim to online scams. This figure encompasses 5,533 individuals affected between 2021 and 2023, and an additional 990 senior citizens who became victims up to May 19 of this year. These scams have resulted in substantial financial losses for the elderly demographic.
Cumulative Victims from 2021 to 2023

From 2021 through 2023, 5,533 senior citizens were identified as victims of online scams. These cases accounted for 6.4 per cent of the total 86,266 online scam victims recorded during that three-year period. The financial impact on this group was significant, with total losses reaching RM552.5 million.
Increased Victimization in 2024

The trend of senior citizens falling victim to online scams has continued into 2024. As of May 19, 2024, 990 senior citizens have been targeted. This represents 8.3 per cent of the 11,918 online scam cases reported this year. The financial losses incurred by these victims have already amounted to RM130.4 million.
Predominance of Telecommunication Fraud

A significant portion of these scams targeting senior citizens involve telecommunication fraud. Between 2021 and 2023, 47.6 per cent of the 5,533 elderly victims, equating to 2,631 individuals, fell prey to scams such as phone scams, online impersonation, SMS fraud, and prize scams. This category of crime was particularly prevalent among the elderly.
Telecommunication Fraud Continues in 2024

Telecommunication fraud remained a leading type of online crime affecting senior citizens in 2024. Up to May 19, 39.4 per cent of the 990 senior citizen victims, or 390 cases, were attributed to telecommunication crimes. These scams underscore the vulnerability of individuals who may not be as internet-savvy.

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How many senior citizens have fallen victim to online scams since 2021?

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