In an alarming case of online fraud, a private employee in Batam, identified as S, became a victim of an unusual hypnotic scam via video call, leading to a loss of Rp 5 million.
The incident unfolded when S engaged in a video call, believing it to be from a familiar contact. However, the call was a trap set by scammers, exploiting hypnotic techniques.
S initially ignored a phone call but later answered a video call, mistaking the scammer for a family member.
The scammer used a red-colored screen during the video call, reportedly hypnotizing S into compliance.
S unknowingly transferred Rp 5 million to the scammer and was further manipulated into an inappropriate request, sparking realization and disconnection.
Despite reporting the incident to the authorities, the scammer remains at large, with S blocking all contacts post the event.
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This case highlights a new frontier in online fraud, leveraging psychological tactics and technological tools.
The incident serves as a stark reminder for Singaporeans and international visitors to remain vigilant in the face of evolving online scams. The sophistication of these scams, using psychological manipulation, requires heightened awareness and caution.
A Batam-based employee, working at Philips, fell victim to an online scam involving hypnotic techniques through a video call, resulting in a loss of Rp 5 million. The case underscores the need for increased caution in online interactions and awareness of the diverse methods employed by cybercriminals.
Source: Batam News (2024)
