Stay alert, avoid human trafficking syndicates, scammers, cops warn tech grads

MELAKA: Graduates with technology expertise, especially in the information and communications (ICT) field, should exercise caution to avoid becoming victims of human trafficking syndicates or scammers looking to exploit their skills for criminal activities.

Bukit Aman criminal investigation department (CID) director Shuhaily Zain said these individuals were increasingly at risk of being targeted due to the demand for tech savvy workers and the lure of attractive salaries.

“From our field research, we know that we are dealing with more complex human trafficking cases,” he told reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of a human trafficking seminar here today.

“While these syndicates may not always need highly specialised skills, they do seek individuals with at least basic knowledge of ICT systems and telecommunications.

“So, those with technology skills are also in their sights.”

He advised recent graduates from higher learning institutions to be wary of high-salary job offers, especially from overseas.

Shuhaily warned that job offers in countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos or Myanmar should be approached with caution and thoroughly verified by job-seekers to avoid falling into scams or human trafficking traps.

He said authorities discovered that some Malaysians had unintentionally played a part in encouraging friends to work abroad – especially young graduates attracted by high-paying jobs – unaware that they were being drawn into human trafficking syndicates.

“On average, we know that entry-level salaries here range from RM1,500 to RM2,200, while scammers can offer between RM4,000 and RM5,000,” he said.

“For young job-seekers eager to start their careers, this is understandably enticing, and these job ads often appear legitimate, offering positions like customer service or technical support without any indication of involvement in online gambling.”