Scam Alert: Beware of SMS claiming to offer RM100 credit under M40 ePemula program

If you’ve received an SMS claiming that you can claim the RM100 credit through the M40 ePemula program, do not click on any of their links and take precautions. For one thing, the ePemula program that was announced during the Budget 2023 presentation hasn’t even started yet.

We’ve received a report from an individual who had received an SMS from “MKN“—making them sound like the official government representatives that usually send us SMSes to do with health or safety. The text also includes “RM0 GOV” in the beginning, similar to what the actual MKN would start with.

“eWallet help to M40 individuals have been credited to your Touch ‘n Go eWallet accounts. Please check your balance here,” wrote the scam text, as it also included a suspicious-looking link.

According to the individual who received the SMS, they admitted to clicking the link. In turn, their Touch ‘n Go eWallet balance had completely disappeared.

This type of scam isn’t new. There was a scam involving SMSes about MySejahtera offering RM800 TNG eWallet credit, which attempts to steal your login details. There was also one claiming to offer TNB blackout compensation via Touch ‘n Go eWallet, as well. It seems like scammers are using enticing announcements by the government to use as bait.

Here’s a reminder to not believe everything that’s been sent to you. Be alert and learn how to avoid scams and phishing attempts, and look out for signs that things may not be what they seem—as it’s getting harder and harder to differentiate the fake and the real messages.

And remember that the ePemula program has not even started yet, so there’s no way that you’re going to be offered the RM100 credit now. And even if you have clicked on a third-party link, do not fill in your personal and sensitive details. Give this clip from LTA a watch for tips on how to avoid scams.

Related reading

• Scam Alert: SMS about MySejahtera offering RM800 TNG eWallet credit is fake
• Scam alert: SMS claiming to offer TNB blackout compensation via Touch ‘n Go eWallet is fake
• Budget 2023: Up to RM200 eWallet credit for Youths and M40 groups under ePemula program