The Star Malaysia - Star2

Scammers target i-sinar

- By ANGELIN YEOH lifestylet­ech@thestar.com.my

THE Employee Provident Fund (EPF) reminded the public to be cautious of fake i-sinar apps on mobile stores.

It said the apps, developed by unidentifi­ed third parties, targeted members looking for more informatio­n on the i-sinar programme.

Applicatio­n for i-sinar withdrawal­s can only be done at isinar. kwsp.gov.my, said the government body, adding that people can download the official EPF i-akaun app for other transactio­ns.

However, to use the app, members have to first register for an i-akaun which can only be done by visiting the nearest EPF office or kiosk.

The fake apps, which have since been removed from the Google Play Store, lured users by claiming to offer guidance and check the status of i-sinar applicatio­ns.

To do that, users were required to give out their personal details on the fake apps, which could be used for scams.

In a statement, EPF said two million members will be eligible to withdraw between RM4,400 and RM60,000 under the i-sinar programme to help them face hardship brought about by the pandemic.

The amount will be credited into their bank accounts starting January next year.

EPF urged the public to visit its official website (bit.ly/tech_kwsp) and Facebook page (bit.ly/tech_ kwspfb) to get updates on i-sinar.

Fraud is on the rise during the pandemic. Previously, the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) warned Bantuan Sara Hidup recipients to be aware of scammers asking for their personal informatio­n such as bank account numbers through fake text messages.

 ?? — AZHAR MAHFOF/THE Star ?? Scammers released fake i-sinar apps on the Google Play store.
— AZHAR MAHFOF/THE Star Scammers released fake i-sinar apps on the Google Play store.

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