Cover image via New Straits Times & AI-Generated (Gemini)
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Cybersecurity experts at Kaspersky have flagged a worrying trend of Ramadan-themed scams currently making the rounds online
These digital traps are cleverly disguised as government aid programmes, designed to snatch your Telegram credentials.
One particularly sneaky campaign uses a phishing page that promises a 'Bantuan Ramadan RM500' aid offer.
It tricks victims into submitting their personal details by checking their eligibility for the 'aid'.
The end goal is account hijacking. Once the scammers get into your Telegram, they can use your identity to disseminate dubious links to your friends and family.
Festive seasons are prime time for these scammers.
They meticulously copy the language and visual design of official announcements, making it tough for the average user to tell the difference.
According to Kaspersky, over 18.8 million different web-borne cyberthreats were detected locally throughout 2025
The National Security Council (MKN) also warned of several festive tactics, including fake 'e-Tunai' offers and fraudulent zakat appeals.
"People often believe they can recognise scams instinctively, but modern scams and phishing schemes are designed to exploit that assumption," said Kaspersky's General Manager for ASEAN and Asia Emerging Countries (AEC), Simon Tung.
Tung noted that advances in technology allow cybercriminals to mimic trusted brands and organisations with terrifying accuracy.
He added that dedicated cybersecurity protection is now essential to block these threats.
Here are four steps to keep your messaging app accounts safe:
- Verify before clicking: To stay safe, experts recommend verifying every link before you click
- Check suspicious numbers/accounts: You can also use the Semak Mule portal to check if a phone number or bank account has been reported for fraud.
- Call 997: Call the hotline to contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) immediately if you've fallen victim to a scam
- Install trusted security software: There are many available online. Kaspersky is currently offering a discount on its premium plans. Purchases made before 31 March 2026 come with a free RM30 Touch 'n Go (TNG) reload pin.
Stay vigilant this Ramadan. If an offer for "free aid" looks too good to be true, it probably is. Don't let a scammer turn your festive preparations into a nightmare.
