Tag Archives: Money

You Can Now Renew Driving Licence For 10 Years With 10% Off!

You can now renew your Malaysian driving licence for 10 years, with a 10% discount to boot!

 

You Can Renew Driving Licence For 10 Years With 10% Off!

On Wednesday, 3 May 2023, Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that you will now be able to renew your Malaysian driving licence for 10 years, with a 10% discount to boot!

This new initiative doubles the validity of your driving licence between renewals from 5 years. On top of that, motorists will get to enjoy a 10% discount on their renewal fees.

The only caveat is that your driving licence must not have expired for more than a year.

They will be charged the same fee of RM30 per year, but if they renew for 10 years at one go, the fee is RM270. This means they will only be paying for nine years.

Those who want to renew must ensure that their licence has not expired for more than a year.

You will be able to renew your driving licence for 10 years, and receive the 10% discount from Monday, May 8, 2023 onwards.

Recommended : Malaysia Adopts Digital Driving Licence In MyJPJ App!

 

Amnesty For Expired Driving Licence!

The Minister also announced an amnesty for those with expired driving licences. If you have a driving licence that expired from January 1, 2018 onwards, you will be able to renew it without having to take a driving test.

Motorists with expired driving licences longer than a year will have until December 31, 2023, to renew their expired driving licences. The driving test requirement will apply again, from January 1, 2024 onwards.

For those who are not aware, the Road Transport Department can revoke your expired driving licence if you do not renew them on time. You will then have to undergo the full process to re-qualify and obtain a new licence.

These are the four categories of expired licences that may be revoked, if they are not renewed in time :

  • Learner’s Driving Licence (LDL) : Up to 2 years
  • Probational Driving Licence (PDL) : More than 1 year
  • Competent Driving Licence (CDL) : More than 3 years
  • Public Service Vehicle / Goods Driving Licence (PSV / GDL) : More than 3 years

The moratorium on revoking expired driving licences actually expired on 31 December 2021, but JPJ extended it to 30 June 2022 after discovering that hundreds of thousands of drivers have yet to renew their expired licences.

Recommended : Where + How To Renew Driving Licence In Malaysia!

This time, the government has decided to offer this amnesty because many Malaysian living abroad were unable to return during the COVID-19 pandemic to renew them.

We decided to allow the renewal of expired licences given the fact that many Malaysians living abroad were unable to do so during Covid-19 with the movement control order.

This amnesty will also begin on Monday, May 8, and end on December 31, 2023. Please note that this initiative only applies to Malaysian citizens, and not to foreigners holding special passes like the MyKAS card.

In addition, only those who have not been blacklisted by the police, or have any existing restrictions imposed by JPJ, and are free from any suspension due to a conviction or court order may renew their expired driving licence.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Travel | Money | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Did Kate Middleton Just Attack Prince Harry + Meghan?!

Did Kate Middleton just attack Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and criticise their relationship?!

Take a look at the viral claim, and find out what the facts really are!

 

Claim : Kate Middleton Just Attacked Prince Harry + Meghan!

People are sharing a Music Mundial article which claims that Kate Middleton just attacked Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and criticised their relationship!

Here is the viral Music Mundial article. Please feel free to skip to the next section for the facts!

Kate Middleton attacks Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and criticizes their relationship

Kate Middleton is not afraid to speak her mind as she has reportedly let her opinion regarding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s relationship be known. As a result, it is highly unlikely that the two royal couples reconcile before King Charles III’s coronation.

Recommended : Are Prince William + Kate Middleton Getting A Divorce?!

 

Truth : Kate Middleton Did Not Attack Prince Harry + Meghan!

This is yet another example of celebrity FAKE NEWS created by Music Mundial to generate page views, and here are the reasons why…

Fact #1 : Kate Middleton Did Not Attack Prince Harry + Meghan Markle

First, let me just quickly say that Kate Middleton did not attack Prince Harry or Meghan Markle.

Music Mundial based that claim on a third-party source close to the family, who allegedly said that Kate feels “irritated by Meghan’s unhealthy obsession with money“.

Even if that quote is accurate, it only shows Kate Middleton’s personal opinion of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

It isn’t an attack on Prince Harry or Meghan herself, anymore than our personal opinion of the Avatar 2 movie is an attack on the movie, actors, and producers!

More importantly, this was revealed by a unanimous source (which has not been independently verified), and not Kate Middleton herself. So it was certainly not an “attack” by her in any way.

Fact #2 : Kate Middleton Did Not Criticise Their Relationship

Music Mundial did not offer any evidence that Kate Middleton criticised Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s relationship, so that claim is obviously false too.

Fact #3 : Radar Online Was The Source, Not MARCA

The source for the key quote in the Music Mundial article was not MARCA, but Radar Online. MARCA credited Radar Online for the quote:

The Duchess of Cambridge, Harry’s sister-in-law, is said to be irritated by Markle’s obsession over money.

“The way they see it, Meghan’s obsession with money seems to have rubbed off on Harry,” a source told Radar Online.

“In their eyes, Meghan seems very preoccupied with image and money and they find it very distasteful.”

As you can see, Radar Online was the source, not MARCA. If Music Mundial cannot even get this right…

Recommended : Prince William Wants Rose Hanbury Accepted Into Royal Family?!

Fact #4 : This Is Just Music Mundial Fake News

This appears to be nothing more than yet another example of celebrity fake news posted by Music Mundial. Here are examples of Music Mundial fake news that I looked into:

Everything Music Mundial posts should be considered as FAKE NEWS, until proven otherwise.

Please help us fight fake news – SHARE this article, and SUPPORT our work!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Fact Check | CelebrityTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Jho Low Paid $20 Million For Photo With The Obamas!

Jho Low paid a cool $20 million for a single photo with the Obamas, but guess how much he paid to influence the Trump Administration?!

 

Jho Low Paid $20 Million For Photo With The Obamas!

On Tuesday, 18 April 2023, Prakazrel “Pras” Michel – a member of the Fugees, together with Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean, testified in his own defence against charges of criminal conspiracy, foreign lobbying and campaign finance crimes.

Pras Michel stands accused of conspiring with fugitive Malaysian financier, Jho Low, to influence the Obama and Trump administrations. During his trial in Washington, D.C., Pras Michel revealed how Jho Low hired him to be a “celebrity surrogate” in order to finagle that photo with the Obamas.

Michel described Jho Low as a “wealthy man willing to do anything, spend any type of money” to get his photo with President Barack Obama, but that Low’s reputation made him “too hot” get an invited to fundraising events. He himself witnessed Low’s wild lifestyle, which was filled with celebrities, models, night clubs, and free-flowing cash.

My understanding is that the campaign thought he was too hot. They didn’t want the optics at that time. At that point, Jho Low was a party guy – Vegas, champagne, parties with Paris Hilton. The campaign just didn’t want that.

Michel told Low that he would try to help him get that photo with the Obamas, but for a price.

I basically asked for US$1 million to begin to think about how I would get this photo. I was going to try.

Jho Low would end up paying Pras Michel $20 million over nine months, before the fugitive tycoon finally got his wish – a photograph with President Barack Obama, and First Lady Michelle Obama, at the 2012 White House Christmas party!

The photo with the Obamas may have cost Jho Low $20 million, but prosecutors claim that Pras Michel pocketed $18 million of the money, and funnelled $2 million into Barack Obama’s 2012 reelection campaign.

Recommended : PDRM Offers Up To 60% Discount On Traffic Offences!

 

Jho Low Paid $70 Million To Influence Trump Administration!

If you are shocked by how much Jho Low paid to get that single photo with Barack and Michelle Obama, you will be shocked by how much he paid to influence the Trump Administration!

Prosecutors alleged that Jho Low paid Michel, 50, another $70 million to lobby the Trump Administration to drop its civil and criminal investigation of Low in the 1MDB scandal, as well as have Miles Guo Wengui, a Chinese billionaire dissident, extradited to China!

Jho Low was indicted in 2021 together with Pras Michel by a federal grand jJury, but remains at large and is believed to be in China.

The indictment issued Thursday by a grand jury in Washington accuses Low and Michel of conspiring with Broidy, a woman named Nickie Lum Davis and others “to engage in undisclosed lobbying campaigns at the direction of Low and the Vice Minister of Public Security for the People’s Republic of China, respectively,” according to the Justice Department.

The goals of those campaigns were “both to have the 1MDB embezzlement investigation and forfeiture proceedings involving Low and others dropped and to have a Chinese dissident sent back to China.”

If convicted, Jho Low faces a maximum penalty of five to 10 years in prison, per count, while Pras Michel could face a range of maximum penalties from five to 20 years in prison, per count.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Fact ChecksMoney | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

PDRM Offers Special RM50 Fine For Traffic Offences!

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is offering a special RM50 fine for all traffic offences!

Find out how you can pay for your traffic offences for just RM50!

 

PDRM Offers Special RM50 Fine For Traffic Offences!

On 18 April 2023, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, announced that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will offer a special RM50 fine for all traffic offences committed in 2022 and earlier!

From Friday, 21 April until Sunday, 21 May 2023, you will be able to pay RM50 for each traffic summon at all police district or contingent headquarters, or online using its MyBayar Saman app or website.

This special offer applies only to traffic summonses issued in 2022 and earlier. It does not apply to traffic offences committed in 2023.

Recommended : Is There A RM300 Seat Belt Fine On PLUS Highway?!
Recommended : PDRM Offers Special RM50 Fine For Traffic Offences!
Recommended : Hari Raya 2023 : No Highway Tolls For Four Days!

 

PDRM Traffic Offences : How To Only Pay RM50

Here is what you need to know about the April-May 2023 PDRM discount for all traffic offences.

RM50 Fine Per Offence

PDRM is offering a special RM50 fine for every traffic summons issued in 2022 or earlier, from Friday, 21 April until Sunday, 21 May 2023.

Where To Pay PDRM Traffic Fines

PDRM will allow you to pay for your traffic fines at these physical venues (weekdays only) :

  • Summon Payment Counters at Police District Headquarters
  • Summon Payment Counters at Police Contingent Headquarters

Instead of queuing up at the police headquarters, you should use the online MyBayar Saman portal or app :

The PDRM launched MyBayar Saman as an alternative payment option, instead of paying over-the-counter, or using private collecting agents like MyEG.

This would also save the public money as MyBayar Saman is FREE, and does not collect service charges. They can also pay their fines at their convenience, without wasting time queuing to pay.

Alternatively, you can also pay for your traffic offence fines at:

  • Maybank ATM nationwide
  • All Pos Malaysia counters

Recommended : PDRM : Jail / Fine If Third Brake Light Not Working!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Travel | Business | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Hari Raya 2023 : No Highway Tolls For Four Days!

The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, just announced that there will be no highway tolls for four days for Hari Raya 2023!

 

Hari Raya 2023 : No Highway Tolls For Four Days

On Tuesday, 18 April 2023, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, announced that there will be no highway tolls for four days, in conjunction with Hari Raya 2023!

In a public announcement, he said that the toll-free travel will apply to all types of vehicles travelling on 33 highways in Malaysia. The toll-free period will last for four days:

  • From 12:01 AM on Wednesday, April 19, to midnight on Friday, April 21, and
  • From 12:01 AM until midnight on Monday, April 24

The Prime Minister said that the toll free travel will reduce the travel costs for people travelling back to their hometowns to celebrate Hari Raya 2023.

But please be warned that during the Hari Raya 2023 festive season, seven traffic offences will be non-compoundable, and will be referred to the courts.

Recommended : Hari Raya 2023 : Lorry Ban + Court for Traffic Offences!
Recommended : PDRM Offers Special RM50 Fine For Traffic Offences!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Travel | Business | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

How To Block Facebook Ads + Pay Scammers!

Many Facebook users are getting hit by the Facebook Ads and Facebook Pay scams! Here is how you can prevent it from happening to you!

 

Facebook Ads + Pay Scam Hits Many Bank Customers!

Many bank customers are complaining that they are being charged for fraudulent Facebook Ads advertisement campaigns!

They discovered that their debit cards were charged for Facebook advertisements that they never approved. Some have also stated that their credit or debit cards were used to purchase goods and services using Facebook Pay.

Stephanie WongI found out the money deducted from my bank acc through multiple continuous transactions yesterday, then I called Maybank customer service immediately. They helped me to cancel the card but then the thing happened again this morning.

@ruffleseedI heard tens of millions of Ringgit were reported misappropriated through @facebook
on multiple bank over the past few weeks.

Delete your phone number from Facebook now and do not let @messenger handle your SMS. @MyMaybank has yet to answer us re: this intrusion.

@ItsNeoah : Banyak kali kena kat credit card ambank. Alhamdulilah call ambank dia mintak isi dispute form then tgok next cycle bil dah takde. Letih ngan scammer ni.

Translation : [My] Ambank credit card got hit many times. Alhamdulillah, after calling Ambank, they asked me to fill out a dispute form, then when I checked the next bill cycle [the charges] was removed. Tired of this scammer.

[/su_note]

Read more : Facebook Ads Scam Hits Many Maybank Customers!

 

How To Block Facebook Ads + Pay Scammers!

Here are some ways to prevent getting hit by the Facebook Ads scam, whether you are a bank customer in Malaysia or other countries.

Do NOT Use Debit Cards

First, you should NEVER use a debit card if you can help it. You should certainly not use a debit card online, or register it on any online or mobile payment platform, whether it’s for Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Facebook Pay.

It doesn’t matter if Bill Gates or Elon Musk or BTS endorses debit cards. DO NOT USE DEBIT CARDS!

You should certainly never use your debit card to fund Facebook advertisements. Always use a credit card, which offers you some protection against such fraudulent transactions.

Disable Your ATM Card’s Debit Card Function

Even if you have never requested for a debit card, you likely already own one – your ATM card likely doubles as a debit card! Banks have been forcing customers to take on debit cards, often by making ATM cards double as debit cards.

If possible, ask your bank to disable debit card function in your ATM card. But it is likely that they will refuse to do so – they make money from debit card transactions after all!

If your bank refuses to disable the debit card function in your ATM card, you can ask them to set the limit to ZERO. That will effectively block scammers from accessing your bank account!

Monitor Your Credit Card Transactions

Using a credit card to purchase products and services on online and mobile payment platforms offers you some protection against fraud, but you must always monitor the transactions and report any fraudulent transactions right away.

Depending on the country and card network, you usually have about 60 days to dispute credit card charges. So don’t wait. Report them as soon as you spot them! This will reduce the loss and reports you make, and speeds up the refund process.

Recommended : Maybank FB Ads Scam : How To Recover Your Money?!

Remove Your Credit Cards ASAP

If you register your credit cards for use with Facebook Ads or Facebook Pay, try to REMOVE them as soon as you are done.

Do NOT leave them registered to your Facebook Ads or Facebook Pay account, as a scammer or hacker who gains access to your Facebook account can make fraudulent purchases or run fraudulent advertisements using those credit cards without additional verification.

That appears to be the modus operandi of the Facebook Ads scam that has affected so many Maybank customers in recent weeks.

But if you have never registered your credit or debit cards with Facebook, or removed them after using, even if scammers hacked into your Facebook account or gained access through phishing attacks, they won’t be able to use your credit or debit cards!

Enable PIN For Facebook Pay

If you are using Facebook Pay, a scammer who gains access to your Facebook account could potentially use the debit or credit cards you registered earlier to make fraudulent transactions.

To prevent that, you should enable PIN confirmation for Facebook Pay:

  1. Go to Settings in the Facebook website (not app).
  2. Go to Account Settings, and select Orders and payments.
  3. In the Orders and payments page, select Settings.
  4. In the Security section, select Require PIN Confirmation.
  5. You will be asked to enter a 4-digit number as your PIN.
  6. Key in the 4-digit number again to confirm your PIN.

After that, you will be required to key in the 4-digit PIN whenever you make a payment, or change your bank account details, or connect your payment info with other Meta apps.

Recommended : Can Greeting Photos + Videos Hack Your Phone?!

Turn On Two-Factor Authentication

To make it harder for scammers / hackers to gain access to your Facebook account, turn on two-factor authentication:

  1. Go to your Security and Login Settings.
  2. Scroll down to Use two-factor authentication and click Edit.
  3. Choose the security method you want to add and follow the on-screen instructions.
When you set up two-factor authentication on Facebook, you’ll be asked to choose one of three security methods:
Once you’ve turned on two-factor authentication, you can get 10 recovery login codes to use when you’re unable to use your phone.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Cybersecurity | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

MILO Malaysia Ramadan Contest Scam Alert!

Please watch out for the MILO Malaysia Ramadan contest scam!

Find out why it is just a SCAM, and WARN your family and friends!

 

MILO Malaysia Ramadan Contest Scam Alert!

People are now sharing the MILO Malaysia Ramadan contest on WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger :

MILO Malaysia Ramadan gift

Through the questionnaire, you will have a chance to get 2000 Ringgit.

MILO Malaysia Ramadan gift

We have prepared a lot of cash gifts as Ramadan gift.

Recommended : Petronas 50th Anniversary Scam Alert!

 

MILO Malaysia Ramadan Contest : Why This Is A Scam!

Unfortunately, this is yet another survey scam, like the Tenaga Nasional 33rd Anniversary scam!!

Nestle confirmed that the viral MILO Malaysia contest a scam in a 30 March 2023 statement on their website:

Nestlé Malaysia Notification on Scams

We have been alerted of a MILO Ramadan Contest offering cash prizes to the public upon completion of a questionnaire. Please be informed that this is a scam which aims to mislead the public.

Nestlé views this matter seriously and has reported it to the relevant authorities.

If you have received a post or message on this, or know anyone who has:

DO NOT share the post
DO NOT provide any personal details (e.g. bank account numbers)
DO NOT make any payments

This is yet another example of a survey scam, that scammers have been using for years:

Now, let me show you how to spot these scams next time!

If you spot any of these warning signs, DO NOT PROCEED and DO NOT SHARE!

Warning Sign #1 : Bad Grammar

Most of these scammers do not have a good command of the English language, so if you spot bad grammar, stay away.

Proper contests or events sponsored by major brands like Nestle will have at least one PR or marketing person who will vet the text before allowing it to be posted.

Recommended : Petronas 50th Anniversary Scam Alert!

Warning Sign #2 : Offering You Free Money Or Gifts

Please do NOT be naive. No one – not even large companies like Nestle – is going to give you money or free gifts just to participate in a survey!

Nestle is a corporation whose business is to make money, not a charity to give you free money.

Warning Sign #3 : Not Using The Real MILO Domain

A genuine Nestle or MILO marketing campaign would use their real domains – www.milo.com.my or www.nestle.com.my.

Or they would run it off the official MILO Malaysia page on Facebook – www.facebook.com/MiloMalaysia/.

If you see nonsensical domains like findinggreedy.cn, consequentlybewilder.cn, merefamily.top, 0yjjg61.cn, 1eaf1rnbeef.top, ldxqw.bar, etc. that’s a sign it’s a SCAM!

Warning Sign #4 : Asking You To Forward The Offer

No brand will insist that you must share the offer with 5 groups or 20 friends on WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.

Do not click to forward their offer to your family and friends. They will not appreciate being scammed with your help!

Recommended : Facebook Ads Scam Hits Many Maybank Customers!

Warning Sign #5 : Asking You To Download + Register An App

If you click through and joined the fake survey scam, you will eventually be asked to download and register for an app.

This is VERY DANGEROUS. Never agree to download and register for any unknown app from a website.

Always download your apps from an official App Store like Google Play Store (for Android smartphones) and Apple App Store (for iPhones).

Please help us fight scams like this and SHARE this article out!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > CybersecurityFact Check | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Facebook Ads Scam Hits Many Maybank Customers!

Many Maybank (MBB) customers are getting hit by the Facebook Ads scam!

Find out what’s going on, and what you can do to avoid this Facebook Ads scam!

 

Facebook Ads Scam Hits Many Maybank Customers!

Many Maybank customers are complaining that they are being charged for fraudulent Facebook Ads advertisement campaigns!

They discovered that their debit cards were charged for Facebook advertisements that they never approved.

Stephanie Wong : I think i am a very cautious person as I did not link my card to any platform or make purchase through any unsafe website at ALL, but it still happens to me.

I found out the money deducted from my bank acc through multiple continuous transactions yesterday, then I called Maybank customer service immediately.

They helped me to cancel the card but then the thing happened again this morning.

@ruffleseedI heard tens of millions of Ringgit were reported misappropriated through @facebook
on multiple bank over the past few weeks.

Delete your phone number from Facebook now and do not let @messenger handle your SMS.

@MyMaybank has yet to answer us re: this intrusion.

Recommended : Beware Of Telegram Screenshot Hack + Scam!

Fahim Fahmi : Begitu saja duit kena curi 😢

Translation : That’s how [my] money got stolen 😢

Danish Ihsan : Aku dah kena jugak, satu hari 2 transaction.. nasib sedaq awai, habis rm800.. kalau tak lagi banyak.. maybank dah tak selamat, tadi kat bank pun ada akak kena jugak transfer to others acc beribu2 jugak lah,. Solusi, jangan guna maybank buat masa sekarang..

Translation : I got with with 2 transactions in one day.. luckily, I realised early, but lost rm800.. if not it would have been more.. maybank is not safe, just now at the bank a lady transferred thousands [of ringgit] to other people’s account. Solution, don’t use Maybank for now..

Recommended : Watch Out For TNG eWallet SMS Phishing Scam!

 

Analysis : Facebook Ads Scam May Not Be Related To Maybank

Many of those customers are angry with Maybank over these fraudulent charges to their debit cards, which meant the money was directly withdrawn from their bank accounts.

However, on closer analysis, the scammers may not necessarily be taking advantage of leaked Maybank debit card information, or hacked Maybank itself…

Fact #1 : Other Bank Customers Are Affected Too

While most recent Facebook Ads scam cases appear to be affecting Maybank customers, other bank customers are reporting that they took were charged for those fraudulent advertisements.

@eeshepeeka : nohh laki cek pun kena last week tp kat CIMB. ada few transaction for 2 days nasib dia tolak sikit2. sekali deduct RM12+ sehari 3x ja. deduction description pun sama sebiji cam dlm gambaq tu. haiyaa

Translation : Well, my husband also got [scammed] last week but at CIMB. there were a few transactions for 2 days, but luckily [the scammer] deducted only small amounts. each time deducting RM12+ a day for 3 times. The deduction description is the same as the one in the picture. haiyaa

@ItsNeoah : Banyak kali kena kat credit card ambank. Alhamdulilah call ambank dia mintak isi dispute form then tgok next cycle bil dah takde. Letih ngan scammer ni.

Translation : [My] Ambank credit card got hit many times. Alhamdulillah, after calling Ambank, they asked me to fill out a dispute form, then when I checked the next bill cycle [the charges] was removed. Tired of this scammer.

Recommended : Can SIM Swap empty bank accounts without warning?!

Fact #2 : Most Of Them Ran Facebook Ads In The Past

In addition to analysing their stories, I also spoke to someone who knows several Maybank customers who got hit by the scam. From what I can ascertain, most of them ran Facebook Ads in the past.

Stephanie Wong : 3.) Did not run any ads recently, but few years ago

@wnn_tasha : I last pakai FB ad guna akaun ni tahun 2018. Silap tak remove payment method tu.

Translation : I last used FB ad using this account in 2018. My mistake for not removing the payment method.

They said that they paid for Facebook page a few years ago to boost their audience.

That said, at least two Maybank customers said that they have never registered any debit or credit card with Facebook:

Fahim Fahmi : Tak pernah ada link kad dengan FB atau social media yang lain

Translation : [I] never linked [any] card with FB or other social media

@ruffleseed : I have never set up payment methods on Facebook nor have I ever used Facebook ads.

Recommended : Beware Of Telegram Screenshot Hack + Scam!

Fact #3 : Scammer Likely Got Access To Those Facebook Accounts

What is interesting is that most of those who were affected by this Facebook Ads scam reported that their Facebook accounts were used to create and run those ads.

If their debit or credit cards were merely stolen, the scammers could have created a new Facebook account to use those stolen cards to run Facebook ads.

Fortunately, one of the victims “caught” the scammer logging into her account from the United States. This clearly shows that the Facebook Ads scam requires the scammer to gain access to their Facebook accounts.

It is likely that the scammers gained access to their victims’ Facebook accounts using phishing attacks, and simply used the debit or credit cards that those victims earlier registered with Facebook to run advertisements in the past.

Fact #4 : Facebook Auto-Fill Is Not The Problem

After these cases went viral, people blamed the Auto-Fill feature in Facebook, and shared videos and photos on how to disable it.

The truth is – this Facebook Ads scam very likely has nothing to do with Auto-Fill, which is a feature used in many other services and platforms.

Auto-Fill only makes it easier to fill in your debit or credit card details. It does not bypass any verification that is required to make a payment.

Read more : Must You Disable Facebook Auto-Fill To Block Scams?!

Fact #5 : You Can Recover Your Money!

Now, this is important – you need to move fast to cut your losses, and recover the money. You can also improve your Facebook account security to prevent it from happening again.

For more details, please read our guide – Maybank FB Ads Scam : How To Recover Money?!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Cybersecurity | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Must You Disable Facebook Auto-Fill To Block Scams?!

Must you immediately disable Auto-Fill in Facebook to block scams?!

Here is what you need to know about Facebook Auto-Fill, and getting scammed on Facebook!

 

Claim : Facebook Auto-Fill Opens You To Scams!

People are sharing warnings about Facebook Auto-Fill, together with instructions on how to disable it to block Facebook Ads scams.

Guys check ur Facebook
And make sure these are OFF
this week a lot of MBB customers kena scam

1. Please check your bank account.
2. Please disable ‘auto-fill’ option in Facebook…

Recommended : Facebook Ads Scam Hits Many Maybank Customers!

 

Truth : Facebook Auto-Fill Does Not Open You To Scams

There appears to be a spate of scams involving Facebook Ads and Maybank users, but it does not appear to be related to the Facebook Auto-Fill feature, and here are the reasons why…

Fact #1 : Facebook Introduced Auto-Fill In 2013

Facebook started introducing Auto-Fill sometime in September 2013, and gradually rolled it out globally over the years, so this is not a new feature.

Fact #2 : Many App Use Auto-Fill

Facebook isn’t the only app or platform to use Auto-Fill. Many services and platforms use Auto-Fill to make it easier to fill up forms and make payments.

The Auto-Fill feature is used in most, if not all, e-commerce / online shopping / online payment platforms, to expedite payments. The idea is that if they make it easier it is for you to pay, you will tend to buy more!

Many apps and services also use Auto-Fill to help you fill onerous forms with common details like your full name, email address, address and telephone number.

Fact #3 : Facebook Does Not Automatically Have Your Details

Facebook enables Auto-Fill by default for forms and payment, but that does not mean it has access to your debit or credit cards, or even your personal details. You need to manually key in your Contact Info and/or Payment Info for Facebook Auto-Fill to work.

If you have never given Facebook your credit card details, there is no way for its Auto-Fill to automatically fill in the credit card details for any transaction. Even if a scammer gains access to your Facebook account, he/she cannot use Auto-Fill because you never keyed in your debit or credit card details in the first place!

I did a quick check on two cases involving Maybank that came up recently (first example) (second example), and noticed that both parties who reported that they got fraudulently charged for Facebook Ads never registered their credit card with Facebook at all!

So whatever may be going on, it does not appear to be a Facebook Auto-Fill issue. But just in case you are worried, here are the latest steps on how to disable Auto-Fill on the Facebook mobile app.

  1. Tap on your icon at the upper right corner of the Facebook app to access the Menu.
  2. Scroll down the Menu until you see the Settings & privacy group.
  3. Tap on Settings.
  4. Scroll down the Settings & privacy page, and tap on Browser.
  5. Scroll down the Browser settings page to the Auto-fill section.
  6. You can tap on the Contact info and Payment info to check what information you shared with Facebook.
  7. To disable Auto-fill for contact information, unselect Auto-fill contact forms.
  8. To disable Auto-fill for payment, unselect Auto-fill payment forms.

Recommended : Can SIM Swap empty bank accounts without warning?!

Fact #4 : Auto-Fill Cannot Bypass TAC Verification

Even if you registered your credit card details with Facebook, and then use Auto-Fill to make a purchase, you will still need to authenticate that purchase.

Of course, it is possible to conduct a SIM swap attack, but that’s a different story altogether…

Fact #5 : Existing Facebook Ads Account Is A Risk

Those who have earlier registered a Facebook Ads account and ran advertisements may be at risk, because their credit cards would already be linked to their Facebook Ads account.

A scammer who gains access to their account (usually through phishing attacks) can easily create and run advertisements using their existing Facebook Ads account using the credit cards that have already been registered and approved earlier.

To minimise your risk, never ever use a debit card! Always use a CREDIT CARD, and always keep an eye on the transactions. Report to the bank once you see a fraudulent transaction.

But this has nothing to do with the Facebook Auto-Fill feature, and is not a concern if you never pre-approved your debit or credit cards with a Facebook Ads account.

Fact #5 : Existing Facebook Pay Account Is A Risk

Similarly, if you are using Facebook Pay, a scammer who gains access to your Facebook account could potentially use the debit or credit cards you registered earlier to make fraudulent transactions.

Again, you should NEVER use a debit card with Facebook Pay. Use a credit card, and always keep an eye on the transactions, and report to the bank once you see something fishy.

On top of that, you should enable PIN confirmation for Facebook Pay:

  1. Go to Settings in the Facebook website (not app).
  2. Go to Account Settings, and select Orders and payments.
  3. In the Orders and payments page, select Settings.
  4. In the Security section, select Require PIN Confirmation.
  5. You will be asked to enter a 4-digit number as your PIN.
  6. Key in the 4-digit number again to confirm your PIN.

After that, you will be required to key in the 4-digit PIN whenever you make a payment, or change your bank account details, or connect your payment info with other Meta apps.

Recommended : Maybank FB Ads Scam : How To Recover Money?!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Cybersecurity | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Malaysia Extends SSPN Tax Relief Until 2024!

Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim just announced the extension of the SSPN tax relief until 2024! Here is what you need to know!

 

Malaysia Extends SSPN Tax Relief Until 2024!

On Wednesday, 29 March 2023, Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the extension of the SSPN tax relief until 2024!

The Prime Minister said that the decision was made after many quarters asked the government to consider the tax relief that was not included in the revised 2023 budget.

The SSPN tax break is expected to cost the government RM250 million (US$56.8 million) in tax revenue. The tax relief is limited to the first RM8,000, after being increased from RM6,000 in the 2019 budget.

I have agreed to extend this tax exemption until 2024 that will benefit 400,000 taxpayers and cost the government RM250 million.

Recommended : PDRM Offers Up To 60% Discount On Traffic Offences!

 

Earlier : SSPN Tax Relief Missing From Malaysia 2023 Budget!

SSPN (Skim Simpanan Pendidikan Nasional) – the National Education Savings Scheme, is a government-backed savings scheme designed to help parents save and invest those savings for their children’s higher education.

In past years, parents in Malaysia who put away money into SSPN for their children’s higher education enjoyed tax relief on the first RM8,000 contributed to the fund for the year.

The re-tabling of Budget 2023 for Malaysia noticeably did not include an extension of the SSPN tax relief. The Finance Bill 2023, which the government is proposing to amend the Income Tax Act 1967 with, includes this amendment:

Subparagraph 4(a)(iv) seeks to delete paragraph 46(1)(k) of Act 53 as the amount deposited by an individual for his child into the Skim Simpanan Pendidikan Nasional shall no longer be allowed as a deduction under Act 53. This amendment has effect for the year of assessment 2023 and subsequent years of assessment.

As a result, SSPN earlier posted a notice on its website saying that it is seeking clarification from the government on the tax relief.

The announcement by the Prime Minister that the SSPN tax relief would be reinstated will definitely be a relief to parents who have had to put up with high inflation.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > BusinessMoney | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

SBF Accused Of Bribing Chinese Officials With $40 Mil!

SBF has just been accused of bribing Chinese officials with “at least $40 million” to unlock frozen trading accounts in China! Here is what you need to know…

 

SBF Accused Of Bribing Chinese Officials With $40 Million!

Sam Bankman-Fried, better known as SBF, has just been hit with fresh charges by US officials, who accuse the crypto-preneur of authorising a bribe of “at least $40 million” (about £32.5 million) to unlock frozen trading accounts in China!

In the updated indictment (PDF download), SBF was said to have approved the $40 million bribe after Chinese authorities froze Alameda Research trading accounts that were holding roughly $1 billion or £811 million worth of cryptocurrencies.

… in or about 2021, SAMUEL BANKMAN-FRIED, a/k/a “SBF”, the defendant, authorised and directed a bribe of at least $40 million to one or more Chinese government officials.

The purpose of the bribe was to influence and induce one or more Chinese government officials to unfreeze certain Alameda trading accounts containing over $1 billion in cryptocurrency, which had been frozen by Chinese authorities.

SBF now faces a total of 13 criminal charges, including this new additional charge. He could potentially be jailed for more than 100 years if convicted.

Recommended : Bitcoin Revolution : Fake Celebrity Endorsements Exposed!

 

How SBF Allegedly Bribed Chinese Officials With $40 Million!

In early 2021, Chinese authorities froze some Alameda Research accounts on two of China’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, freezing approximately $1 billion in cryptocurrency stored in those accounts.

At that time, SBF believed that the accounts were frozen as part of an ongoing investigation into another company that was trading with Alameda Research.

At least, SBF and others working for him tried “numerous methods” to unfreeze those accounts, including:

  • retaining lawyers in China to lobby for the Alameda accounts to be unlocked,
  • communicating with the Chinese cryptocurrency exchanges, and
  • opening new accounts on those Chinese cryptocurrency exchanges using several individuals unaffiliated with FTX (the “Fraudulent Accounts”) and then attempting to transfer cryptocurrency from the frozen accounts to those Fraudulent Accounts.

After months of failed attempts to unlock those frozen accounts, SBF and unnamed partners discussed and “ultimately agreed” to a multi million dollar bribe to unfreeze those accounts.

The indictment specifically called out SBF for authorising and directing the “illicit transfer of cryptocurrency” to “induce and influence one or more Chinese government officials to unfreeze the Accounts”.

Recommended : SBF Allegedly Hid $8 Billion In Korean Friend Account!

Following SBF’s authorisation and instructions, Alameda Research employees transferred cryptocurrency worth about $40 million from the Alameda main trading account to a private cryptocurrency wallet in November 2021, after which the Accounts were unfrozen.

After confirming that the accounts were unfrozen, SBF then authorised the transfer of “additional tens of millions of dollars in cryptocurrency to complete the bribe“.

Thanks to the unfreezing of its accounts, Alameda was able to continue funding its trades, and continue what the government says was a fraud upon its customers and investors for another year.

FTX and Alameda would later implode in November 2022, with SBF arrested in December and charged with defrauding FTX customers, investors and lenders, as well as conspiracy to commit bank fraud, conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and conspiracy to make unlawful political contributions and defraud the Federal Election Commission.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Business | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

TTDI Ramadan Bazaar Offers Full Digital Payments!

Tech Hunter just launched a a massive Ramadan Bazaar in TTDI called #TechMeToBazaar, where every vendor is fully equipped for digital payments!

 

TTDI Ramadan Bazaar Offers Full Digital Payments!

Tech Hunter just launched a Ramadan Bazaar in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail (TTDI) called #TechMeToBazaar. The massive bazaar boasts over 150 stalls offering local delicacies, and expects to welcome over 200,000 visitors this year.

Thanks to Tech Hunter Global Sdn Bhd (“Tech Hunter”), visitors to the TTDI Ramadan Bazaar can make payments using a variety of digital modes, including debit or credit cards and e-wallets.

All stalls at the TTDI Ramadan Bazaar are fully equipped with payment terminals set up by PayHunter, a Tech Hunter subsidiary, so visitors can simply “wave” their debit or credit cards, or scan the QR codes to digitally transfer money using any e-wallet. Visitors no longer have to worry about bringing enough cash to pay for their buka puasa meals!

TTDI Ramadan Bazaar is also powered by SHOPLINE, a global Smart Commerce Enabler offering omnichannel commerce solutions. SHOPLINE recently integrated its POS system with Tech Hunter’s Smart Mobile Payment Terminal to allow retailers to easily place and checkout a customer’s order via a compact, wireless device – perfect for space-saving and mobile use at the bazaar!

Lastly, YTL Communications’ Yes is the telecommunications provider that powers the 5G connectivity throughout the entire bazaar.

“This Ramadan, we are proud to launch the first ever 5G Ramadan Bazaar, powered by Yes 5G as part of the Tech Me To Bazaar campaign,” said Wing K. Lee, Chief Executive Officer at YTL Communications. “In line with our ongoing mission to enable 5G for All, we are bringing 5G connectivity to one of the most engaged activities of the festive season. Through the Ramadan bazaar at TTDI, we are making 5G accessible for both vendors and customers alike to experience seamless connectivity, fast internet speeds and ultra-low latency through Yes 5G. We welcome all to our Yes booths located within the bazaar, to kickstart their 5G experience powered by Yes”.

 

Promotions @ TTDI Ramadan Bazaar!

Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN), SHOPLINE, GrabPay Malaysia and YTL Communications came together as sponsors to offer these promotions at the TTDI Ramadan Bazaar :

  • Visitors who use their BSN credit or debit card to make an accumulated spend of RM50 with a maximum combination of three (3) receipts, will stand a chance to win a one-time RM5 cashback during the campaign period from 23 March until 21 April 2023. A total of 4,000 winners will be selected randomly.
  • Visitors can also enjoy RM30 off, with a minimum purchase of RM200 using Grab’s PayLater function in the Grab app. Visitors will need to scan the GrabPay QR code at the stalls, key in the payment amount and “Pay Next Month” or “Pay in 4 Instalments” to enjoy the discount.

The TTDI Ramadan Bazaar is open from 3 PM every day from 23 March until 21 April 2023.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > BusinessMoney | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

PDRM Offers Up To 60% Discount On Traffic Offences!

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is offering a 60% discount programme on selected traffic offences!

Find out how you can pay for your traffic offences with up to 60% discount!

 

PDRM Offers Up To 60% Discount For Traffic Offences!

On 19 March 2023, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) announced that it is offering up to 60% discount on selected traffic offences, in conjunction with the 216th Police Day!

From Monday, 20 March until Friday, 31 March 2023, you will be able to pay for your traffic offence fines with up to 60% discount either at all police district or contingent headquarters, or online using its MyBayar Saman app or website.

Recommended : Is There A RM300 Seat Belt Fine On PLUS Highway?!

 

PDRM Traffic Offences : How To Get 60% Discount?

Here is what you need to know about the March 2023 PDRM discount for selected traffic offences.

Discount Up To 80%

PDRM is offering up to 80% discount on traffic summonses, from Monday, 20 March until Friday, 31 March 2023.

Where To Pay PDRM Traffic Fines

PDRM will allow you to pay for your traffic fines at these physical venues:

  • Summon Payment Counters at Police District Headquarters
  • Summon Payment Counters at Police Contingent Headquarters

Instead of queuing up at the police headquarters, you should use the online MyBayar Saman portal or app :

The PDRM launched MyBayar Saman as an alternative payment option, instead of paying over-the-counter, or using private collecting agents like MyEG.

This would also save the public money as MyBayar Saman is FREE, and does not collect service charges. They can also pay their fines at their convenience, without wasting time queuing to pay.

Recommended : PDRM : Jail / Fine If Third Brake Light Not Working!

Discounts Do NOT Apply To All Traffic Offences

The discounts being offered do NOT apply to all traffic offences. Here is a list of traffic offences that will not be reduced under this programme :

  • Causing accidents
  • Summon for court hearing
  • Summon with a warrant status
  • Offences involving heavy vehicles
  • Overtaking another vehicle dangerously
  • Driving on the emergency lane
  • Non-compoundable offences
  • Not obeying traffic lights
  • Overtaking across double lines
  • Modification of vehicle exhausts
  • Op Selamat summonses

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Travel | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Apple MFI plan to limit speed, power on USB-C leaked!

Apple may be planning to limit data transfer and charging speed on USB-C ports used in its devices, by introducing MFI certification!

 

Earlier : Apple Forced To Adopt USB-C Port!

Apple has been hesitant about moving to the superior USB-C port for years, limiting it to Mac computers and iPad tablets.

The 12-inch MacBook was the first Mac computer to get USB-C in 2015, while the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro tablets made the switch from Lighting to USB-C in 2018. However, Apple stubbornly refused to migrate its iPhones to USB-C.

The choice to stick with their proprietary Lightning port was taken out of their hands on October 4, 2022, when the European Parliament voted decisively to adopt the USB-C (USB Type C) port as the new standard for all portable devices.

By the end of 2024, all portable devices sold in the EU must come with a USB-C charging port. This directive is more or less directed at Apple, which is the only brand that continues to use its own proprietary Lighting connector.

Read more : EU Orders All Brands To Use USB-C, Including Apple!

 

Apple MFI plan to limit speed, power on USB-C leaked!

Now that the EU is firmly forcing everyone to use USB-C, Apple will start using the USB Type C port in its upcoming iPhone 15 models.

However, Apple apparently isn’t going to give up its lucrative side gig of selling its users MFI (Made for iPhone) cables and accessories at exorbitant prices.

According to ShrimpApplePro, who accurately leaked on the iPhone 14, Apple will introduce MFI for its USB-C cables and accessories.

And even worse – cables that lack MFI certification will have their data and charging speeds limited.

Yeah usb-c with MFI is happening

Foxconn already in mass production accessories like EarPods and cables

Cables w no MFI will be software limited in data and charging speed

MFI-certified cables have a small authenticator chip to verify that they are “certified” to work with Apple devices. If you use cables that lack this authenticator chip, you will get the “This accessory is not supported” warning on your Apple device.

Apple gets paid for every authenticator chip, so MFI cables and accessories are priced at a premium, even if they work just as well as non-MFI cables and accessories.

Apple is already expected to limit the iPhone 15 base model, and iPhone 15 Plus, to USB 2.0 data transfer speeds of up to 480 Mbps (60 MB/s), while Pro models will get the much higher transfer rates of 20 Gbps (USB-C 3.2) or even 40 Gbps (Thunderbolt 3).

People may not bat an eye at Apple limiting data transfer speeds to differentiate their Pro models from the non-Pro models, but limiting battery recharging speeds for non-MFI cables should ruffle some feathers. After all, there is technically no good reason why Apple cannot allow their devices to benefit from faster charging using non-MFI cables.

Naturally, Apple benefits financially from introducing MFI for USB-C. It will force Apple users to pay the notorious “Apple tax” on top of the “Apple premium” they paid for their Apple devices.

Imagine if Apple introduces MFI for USB-C and phases that in for future Mac computers and iPad tablets, as well as the upcoming iPhone 15 smartphones. Even those who have been happily using regular, non-MFI USB-C cables will have to switch them to MFI cables, and for what?

There is really no discernible benefit for Apple users to use MFI-certified cables over regular USB-C cables. It’s not like they will give your Apple devices magical powers. If there is any reduction in transfer rate or charging speed, it will only happen because Apple intentionally chose to make it so.

Of course, this leak may turn out to be true, and Apple may not be quite so evil as to foist the MFI tax on its loyal users. But I fear that Apple believes its users are more loyal than discerning, and will yet again, quietly pay for MFI cables just because Apple said so.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > MobileTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

BitiCodes Scam Alert : Fake Celebrity Endorsements!

You may have seen celebrities endorsements of BitiCodes or Biti Codes circulating on Facebook and Instagram, but they are all FAKE.

Find out why there are so many fake celebrity endorsements of Biticodes / Biti Codes, and how they are doing it!

 

BitiCodes / Biti Codes : Fake Celebrity Endorsements

BitiCodes or Biti Codes claims to be “the crypto industry’s most accurate AI auto-trading app“, which “works by automatically placing trades… using trading bots to strengthen your chances of making a profitable trade.”

If you never heard of it, you won’t be alone, because it’s mainly promoted via advertisements on Facebook, Instagram, etc. They are also promoting it through Google Ads like these examples, which will often appear in completely legitimate websites.

Clicking on those advertisements will lead to legitimate-looking articles from local or crypto publications, often with a celebrity endorsing Biticodes / Biti Codes.

Here in Malaysia, people will see Biticodes being endorsed by the likes of local politicians like Lim Guan Eng or Dr. Mahathir. But those in the cybersecurity industry will quickly realise that these articles are familiar because they are almost exact copies of scam articles used in the previous Bitcoin Revolution scam.

Looking for reviews of Biticodes or Biti Codes is pointless, because they appeared to have paid for advertorials in legitimate media outlets, which are (intentionally?) wrongly listed as “reviews”. Only at the very bottom do they include a disclaimer that it was a sponsored post.

Outlook India

Biticodes Reviews : Today we’ll be talking about one platform called Biticodes that you can use to make an extra source of income. It’s safe, and you do not need to worry about anything. It may help you earn good money in very less time.

Disclaimer : This is sponsored review content posted by us. All the information about the product is taken from the official website (and not fact-checked by us). Contact customer care phone number given on product’s official website for order cancellation, return, refund, payment, delivery etc. related issues. Must consult any financial specialist before investing in BitiCodes Auto-Trading Software.

Tribune India

Biticodes is real or scam review 2022 : With an astonishing success rate of 90%, BitiCodes has what it takes to be your go-to platform for cryptocurrency trading. It can execute multiple deals per second – a rate that even the most experienced cryptocurrency traders would be hard-pressed to match.

Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed in the above article are independent professional judgment of the experts and The Tribune does not take any responsibility, in any manner whatsoever, for the accuracy of their views. Biticodes are solely liable for the correctness, reliability of the content and/or compliance of applicable laws. The above is non-editorial content and The Tribune does not vouch, endorse or guarantee any of the above content, nor is it responsible for them in any manner whatsoever. Please take all steps necessary to ascertain that any information and content provided is correct, updated, and verified.

In other words, those are NOT legitimate reviews, and the media outlets did not even test Biticodes / Biti Codes. Their disclaimers show that their “reviews” were paid content, written by Biticodes / Biticodes.

 

Avast Explains How BitiCodes Scam Works

In an August 2022 article, the cybersecurity company explained how the BitiCodes (also known as TeslaCoin) scam works:

The scam encourages people to pay to create an account and invest into a fraudulent crypto investment platform. There are two ways the campaign reaches potential victims: Through Facebook ads and email. Ultimately, victims can end up losing at least $250.

At the bottom of the page is a webform requesting site visitors to enter their name, email address, and phone number in order to register for the platform. The victim receives an email from a bot sparking a conversation in the victim’s language.

After a brief example exchange, the bot sends a link to a payment gateway, and asks the victim to transfer $250 in order to activate their trading account. Another scenario involves the bot emailing potential victims with steps to login to a cryptocurrency broker page, and after a few more emails, the bot sends a link to a payment gateway, asking the victim for a $250 initial investment.

I also investigated the articles and the BitiCodes website, and noticed that they are all using highly-suspicious domains and links:

  • celesteal.xyz/biticodes for the BitiCodes website (registered 23 Nov. 2022)
  • thedailypressbriefing.com/my for the BTC-News website (registered 29 Jan. 2023)
  • saveontaxesthisyear.tax for the BTC-News website (registered 6 Feb. 2023)

As you can see, the domains are not only completely unrelated to the article / websites, they are almost brand new! And if you go to their domain root, nothing loads. That is not how legitimate websites function. If you do a WHOIS lookup, you will discover that the owners of these domains are hidden.

Regardless of whether BitiCodes / Biti Codes itself is legitimate, you should avoid any article that do not tally with the official website, or with irrelevant domains.

Don’t fall for the scam. Avoid these BitiCodes / Biti Codes advertisements and fake celebrity endorsements.

Please help us fight fake news – SHARE this article, and SUPPORT our work!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Fact Check | Money | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Tenaga Nasional 33rd Anniversary Scam Alert!

Please watch out for the Tenaga Nasional 33th Anniversary survey contest scam!

Find out why it is just a SCAM, and WARN your family and friends!

 

Tenaga Nasional 33th Anniversary Survey Scam Alert!

People are now sharing the Tenaga Nasional 33th Anniversary messages on WhatsApp :

Congratulations!

Tenaga Nasional 33rd Anniversary National Government Power Subsidy!

Through the questionnaire, you will have a chance to get 1000 Ringgit

🎉 Tenaga Nasional 33rd Anniversary National Government Power Subsidy 🎊

Electricity subsidy is being issued…

Recommended : Petronas 50th Anniversary Scam Alert!

 

Tenaga Nasional 33th Anniversary Survey : Why This Is A Scam!

Unfortunately, this is yet another survey scam, like the Petronas 50th Anniversary scam!

Tenaga Nasional confirmed that this survey is a scam in a scam alert on their website on 6 February 2023.

Win Cash Rewards from TNB – 6/2/2023

TNB customers are advised to ignore survey links that claim they can win cash rewards from TNB.

TNB does not organize any kind of cash prize giveaway on social media. Please be careful and avoid spreading this false information.

I know many of us are in dire straits during the COVID-19 pandemic, having lost jobs, income or even loved ones.

Unfortunately, scammers are counting on our desperation to prey on us, using the same survey scam they have been using for years :

Now, let me show you how to spot these scams next time!

If you spot any of these warning signs, DO NOT PROCEED and DO NOT SHARE!

Warning Sign #1 : Bad Grammar

Most of these scammers do not have a good command of the English language, so if you spot bad grammar, stay away.

Proper contests or events sponsored by major brands like Tenaga Nasional will have at least one PR or marketing person who will vet the text before allowing it to be posted.

Read more : Petronas 50th Anniversary Scam Alert!

Warning Sign #2 : Offering You Free Money Or Gifts

Please do NOT be naive. No one is going to give you money or free gifts just to participate in a survey!

Tenaga Nasional isn’t going to give you FREE money, just because it’s their anniversary.

They are a corporation whose business is to make money, not a charity to give you free money.

Warning Sign #3 : Not Using The Real Jaya Grocer Domain

A genuine Tenaga Nasional campaign would use their real domain – www.tnb.com.my.

Or they would run it off the official Tenaga Nasional page on Facebook – www.facebook.com/TNBCareline/.

If you see nonsensical domains like merefamily.top, 0yjjg61.cn, 1eaf1rnbeef.top, ldxqw.bar, etc. that’s a sign it’s a SCAM!

Warning Sign #4 : Asking You To Forward The Offer

No brand will insist that you must share the offer with 5 groups or 20 friends on WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.

Do not click to forward their offer to your family and friends. They will not appreciate being scammed with your help!

Warning Sign #5 : Asking You To Download + Register An App

If you click through and joined the fake survey scam, you will eventually be asked to download and register for an app.

This is VERY DANGEROUS. Never agree to download and register for any unknown app from a website.

Always download your apps from an official App Store like Google Play Store (for Android smartphones) and Apple App Store (for iPhones).

Please help us fight scams like this and SHARE this article out!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > CybersecurityFact Check | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

2023 Turkey Earthquake : Fake Photos + Scam Alert!

Please watch out for fake photos + videos, as well as donation scams capitalising on the devastating 2023 earthquake in Turkey!

 

2023 Turkey Earthquake : Fake Photos Alert!

Many people have been sharing photos of the massive earthquake that devastated both Turkey and Syria on 6 February 2023.

Unfortunately, quite a number of fake photos on WhatsApp and social media. They also appear in TikTok and YouTube videos. Here are a few notable examples.

Old Man With Bread

This photo of an old man with bread is being shared as a lesson on why we should be humble, respectful and kind.

It took just 17secs to change his status from the owner of 33 buildings to a person who’s surviving on bread and finding shelter where he can.

#TurkeyEarthquake teaches us an important lesson that life is unpredictable and nothing is permanent. Be humble, respectful and kind.

How being humble, respectful and kind could have helped this poor man was not explained. Neither did the people sharing this “lesson” explain why this photo has been circulating since 1999…

Yes, this photo was taken by photographer, Abdurrahman Antakyalı, almost 24 years ago, after the Düzce Earthquake that occurred on 12 November, 1999.

Needless to say, that old man was not a rich man who owned 33 buildings. It is incredible that people who create a fake story about this poor man. If there is a lesson to be learned, it is that everyone should “verify before sharing“!

Recommended : Did Turkey Earthquake Cause Nuclear Plant Explosion?!

Dog Looking For Survivor

Many people are sharing photos of dogs looking for survivors, like this example below, which was shared with messages like:

The little heroes will save many lives. Pray for Turkey.

This is incredible! A dog in Turkey was seen digging trying to rescue its owner. When the dog failed to move the heavy debris, he started barking to ask for help while holding one of his owner’s fingers!

Syrian🇸🇾 Turkish🇹🇷 Earthquakes!

Dogs are sensitive to their owner ❤️😊

The truth is – that is one of many stock images of “dogs looking for people in earthquake” available online.

That photo, and similar examples featuring the same dog as well as others dogs were posted by Czech photographer, Jaroslav Noska, on November 2020.

This suggests that the photos were staged for use as stock photos, and not actual photos of a real disaster area, or even real rescue dogs.

Tryon The Rescue Dog

Many people shared this photo of a dirty-looking dog, claiming that it just saved 10 lives in the 2023 earthquake in Turkey.

This dog worked all night last night and saved 10 lives

This dog hero who worked the whole night and saved 10 lives in Turkey.

The truth is – this is Tryon the rescue dog who helped to search for victims of a deadly mudslide near Oso, Washington, in the United States.

This photo was taken by Rick Wilking, a freelance photographer for Reuters, on March 30, 2014. He provided the following caption for this photo:

Tryon the rescue dog waits to go through the decontamination area at the mudslide after searching for victims in Oso, Washington March 30, 2014.

Recommended : Did FedEx + Southwest Jets Almost Collide In Video?!

 

2023 Turkey Earthquake : Donation Scam Alert!

People are not just posting those fake photos to “virtue signal” or increase their popularity, some are using them for donation scams!

Photos of Tryon the rescue dog above, for example, is being used to solicit donations for the people in Syria.

(Need Some reputable or NGO in Syria to pay or food. Shelter, blankets the Earthquake affects from the donations if gathered from this page.

As Sanction Syria from all over the world needs our help. Turkey has been helping by many.

He (Reputable) or NGO must be at the Earthquake affected areas of Syria and make video or come live while giving blankets, food, donation etc. Thanks )

– Those who want to Help/Donate. Message us. Thanks!

Even more egregious is this photo of a firefighter holding a child with a Turkish flag on his sleeve.

Friends, we have launched an aid campaign to reach people who have experienced an #earthquake disaster in Turkey.

#btc B : 1)n3C4GiFCzERTWd6nvCc4hTzvK8Viz88y

#eth: Ox2cff2ad875£68bf4ec5a478e505767c348dd61d

#Suns suns

The trouble is – the photo isn’t real! It was created by Major General Panagiotis Kotridis of the Aegean fire brigade using the AI image generator called Midjourney.

While they are capable of creating really realistic images, such artificial intelligence image generators often leave tell-tale mistakes.

In the viral photo below, you can see that the firefighter has six fingers on his right hand with an abnormally long thumb. His left hand is also missing, with a third “hand?” right next to it.

Recommended : Scam Alert : Fake Damar Hamlin Donation Requests!

The BBC investigated further, and found that one of the crypto wallet addresses had been used in scam and spam tweets since 2018, while the other crypto wallet address had been posted on VK – the Russian social media website, together with pornographic content.

Ax Sharma, a cybersecurity expert at Sonatype, also pointed out that scammers are creating fake disaster relief accounts on social media to cheat people. One example is @TurkeyRelief on Twitter, which was created in January 2023 with just 31 followers and asked for donations using PayPal.

Scammers are also using TikTok Live to ask for donations, using captions like “Let’s help Turkey”, “Pray for Turkey” and “Donate for earthquake victims” over their videos. According to the BBC, TikTok takes up to 70% of the proceeds of these digital gifts.

So please WATCH OUT for such donation scams, which use real or fake photos / videos to trick people into sending them money.

If you want to help, please donate DIRECTLY to reputable organisations like the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Médecins San Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders), OxFam, or the nearest Turkish embassy.

Please help us fight fake news – SHARE this article, and SUPPORT our work!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Fact Check | TravelTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Malaysia Adopts Digital Driving Licence In MyJPJ App!

Malaysia has officially adopted the digital driving licence (e-LLM) for private vehicles owned by Malaysian citizens!

 

Malaysia Adopts Digital Driving Licence In MyJPJ App!

On Friday, 10 February 2023, Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that, effective immediately, Malaysian citizens no longer need to use a physical driving licence (Lesen Memandu Malaysia, or LLM for short).

Effective 10 February 2023, Malaysian citizens can sign up for their e-LLM digital driving licence through the MyJPJ mobile app, which is available in:

Here are two screenshots of the MyJPJ mobile app, showing the digital driving licence and whether it is still valid, or has expired.

In addition to a digital example of the typical physical card, it has a QR code for enforcement officers to verify. So claims by some netizens that this can be easily photoshopped is nonsensical.

Please note that the e-LLM digital driving licences are optional. You can continue to use your physical driving licence. This is merely a new way that gives you access to a digital copy of your driving licence, and your road tax.

Recommended : Malaysia Adopts Digital Road Tax : Sticker Not Required!

This move is part of the broader digitalisation plan for JPJ, which should provide a smoother and faster service to the people.

I welcome all drivers and vehicle owners to transition to the digital platform. With this, the congestion and long lines at JPJ counters will be reduced.
– Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke

Alternatively, motorists can use the JPJ mySIKAP portal to obtain their e-LLM digital driving licence, which can be printed. A screenshot can also be taken of the e-LLM driving licence to be shown to enforcement officers.

However, it is not an offence if you cannot show enforcement officers your digital driving licence. Police and JPJ enforcers can use their own devices to check your driving licence.

Finally, JPJ will continue to offer the physical driving licence to motorists who still prefer it, or need one to drive overseas. These physical cards will be available at JPJ branches.

The alternative methods of using a screenshot and/or printed certificate are useful for drivers who are not tech-savvy. They can get their family members to help them register and print their digital driving licence.

And of course, physical driving licences are still available for those who prefer the “old school” ways, or need them to drive overseas.

 

Physical Driving Licence Still Required For Some Motorists

Please note that the move to a digital driving licence is currently limited to selected Malaysian citizens. Holders of these driving licences must continue to bring their physical cards.

  • Learner’s Driving Licence (LDL)
  • Vocational Driving Licence (PSV / GDL / KON)
  • Malaysia Driving Licence for Foreigners
  • Foreign Driving Licence (IDP)

Loke said that enforcement action will continue, and the police and JPJ enforcers will use their own devices to check on the driver’s road tax status.

I want to stress that enforcement action will continue to be taken against anyone found driving a vehicle without a valid motor vehicle or driving licence, in line with the Road Transport Act.
– Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke

Recommended : JPJ : Renew Driving Licence Or Retake Full Driving Test!

 

e-LLM Digital Driving Licence Initiative : Good Or Bad?

While some people are already complaining about the hassle of opening a mobile app, or printing a physical copy, the move to digitising the driving licence is inevitable.

Digitising the driving licence would mean you can now renew it online, or through the MyJPJ app, saving you time and the hassle of going to a JPJ branch or post office. You can now renew your driving licence from the comfort of your own home / office, at any time of the day!

Moving to a digital driving licence also means you no longer have to worry about losing your physical licence, or paying for a replacement! All that is not only history with the digital driving licence, you can actually print multiple copies!

As for claims that anyone with Photoshop can create their own digital driving licence, any police or JPJ enforcement officer can easily verify if your driving licence is legitimate by checking the JPJ database. That’s why there is now a QR code.

In fact, the digitisation of driving licences will make it easier for enforcement officers. They don’t even need to check your MyJPJ app. They can simply use their own devices to quickly determine if you have a valid driving licence, even if you forgot to bring yours!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Travel | Money | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Malaysia Adopts Digital Road Tax : Sticker Not Required!

Malaysia has officially adopted the digital motor vehicle licence (e-LKM), removing the need for physical road tax stickers on vehicle windshields!

 

Malaysia Adopts Digital Road Tax : Windshield Sticker Not Required!

On Friday, 10 February 2023, Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that, effective immediately, private vehicles owned by Malaysian citizens no longer need to display their motor vehicle licence (Lesen Kenderaan Motor, or LKM for short), which is colloquially known as the “road tax”.

Effective 10 February 2023, the Malaysia Transport Ministry will no longer enforce Section 20 of the Road Transport Act, which states that motor vehicle licences must be fixed to, and exhibited, on all vehicles.

Any summons issued for not displaying the road tax sticker will be classified as “No Further Action”.

In line with this initiative, the provision under Section 20 of the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) where “each vehicle registration licence must be affixed and displayed on the relevant vehicle will no longer be enforced for the category of owners under the first phase.

This exemption will be gazetted under the authority given to the Minister of Transport under Section 127(1)(b) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

This initiative will be implemented in stages, with the first phase involving individual private vehicles, including motorcycles, owned by Malaysians.
– Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke

During this first phase, other vehicles must still display their road tax / motor vehicle licences, including:

  • private vehicles owned by private companies
  • private vehicles owned by foreigners
  • commercial vehicles
  • public service vehicles

This move is part of the broader digitalisation plan for JPJ, which should provide a smoother and faster service to the people.

I welcome all drivers and vehicle owners to transition to the digital platform. With this, the congestion and long lines at JPJ counters will be reduced.
– Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke

Please note that the e-LKM digital road tax is optional. You can continue to use your physical road tax sticker. This is merely a new way that gives you access to a digital copy of your driving licence, and your road tax.

Recommended : Malaysia Adopts Digital Driving Licence In MyJPJ App!

 

Private Vehicle Road Tax Now Available Through MyJPJ App!

Please note that this does not mean the road tax has been abolished. You still need to pay for the road tax. It is merely the physical motor vehicle licence that has been abolished.

But do not think you don’t have to pay for your Road Tax anymore. You still have to pay for it

I want to stress that enforcement action will continue to be taken against anyone found driving a vehicle without a valid motor vehicle or driving licence, in line with the Road Transport Act.
– Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke

Instead of physical road tax stickers, motorists will now obtain their digital road tax certificates (e-LKM) through the MyJPJ mobile app, which is available in:

Motorists can also use the app to show enforcement officers their e-LKM digital road tax certificates. However, this is not necessary.

Loke said that it is not an offence if you cannot show enforcement officers your digital road tax certificate. On top of that, the police and JPJ enforcers can use their own devices to check on the vehicle’s road tax status.

Recommended : JPJ : Renew Driving Licence Or Retake Full Driving Test!

Alternatively, motorists can use the JPJ mySIKAP portal to obtain their e-LKM digital road tax certificates, which can be printed. A screenshot can also be taken of the e-LKM to be shown to enforcement officers.

Finally, JPJ will continue to offer the printed sticker to motorists who still prefer to install it on their cars. These printed stickers will be available at JPJ branches.

The alternative methods of using a screenshot and/or printed certificate are useful if the driver is not the actual owner of the car. And of course, the physical road tax stickers are still available for those who prefer the “old school” ways.

 

e-LKM Digital Road Tax Initiative : Good Or Bad?

While some people are already complaining about the hassle of opening a mobile app, or printing a physical copy, the move to digitising the motor vehicle licence / road tax is inevitable.

Digitising the motor vehicle licence would mean you can now renew it online, or through the MyJPJ app, saving you time and the hassle of going to a JPJ branch and queuing up.

Even if you have to print a physical copy, it is still cheaper than paying for MYEG delivery of the road tax, or actually spending your time and money to get the sticker.

And did you forget what a chore it was to install the road tax sticker every year? We all had to very carefully peel the sticker the right way, or risk tearing it!

All that will be history now that we are moving to digital certificates that we can retrieve online, from the MyJPJ app, or print anytime we want, from the comfort of our own home / office!

As for the claim that the digital motor vehicle certificate will make it easier for people to steal cars – that’s just absurd. People have been stealing vehicles even with a physical road tax sticker. Moving to a digital certificate won’t make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle!

In fact, now that the road taxes / motor vehicle licences are digitised, it will be easier for enforcement officers as they can now check your vehicle’s validity using their own devices. They no longer need to peek at your road tax sticker.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Travel | Money | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

CNY 2023 : No Highway Tolls On January 20-21!

The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, just announced that there will be no highway tolls on January 20 to 21 for Chinese New Year 2023!

 

CNY 2023 : No Highway Tolls On January 20-21!

On Wednesday, 18 January 2023, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, announced that there will be no highway tolls on January 20 to 21 in conjunction with Chinese New Year 2023!

In a short public announcement, he said that the Minister of Transport and the Minister of Works took the initiative to discuss the matter with the highway concessionaires across Malaysia, and they agreed not to impose any highway tolls for two days.

The toll-free travel will apply to all types of vehicles travelling on all highways in Malaysia. The toll-free period will begin at 12:01 AM on January 20, and end at midnight on January 21, 2023.

The expected financial implication of these two days of toll-free travel is estimated to be about RM40 million (US$9.2 million).

Recommended : Every Student In Malaysia To Get RM150 BAP Aid!

The Minister of Works and the Minister of Transport took the initiative to discuss with the concessionaires, who agreed to eliminate the toll charges for the 20th and 21st (of January).

We hope that by waiving the toll charges for the two days, it will allow all Malaysians to enjoy travels during the Chinese New Year. My advice to road users is to obey the law and be safe on the road.

But please be warned that during the Chinese New Year festive season, seven traffic offences will be non-compoundable, and will be referred to the courts.

Read more : CNY 2023 : Lorry Ban + Court For Traffic Offenders!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Travel | Business | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Every Student In Malaysia To Get RM150 BAP Aid!

Here is what you need to know about the RM150 BAP financial aid that schools will start distributing to all students in Malaysia!

 

RM150 BAP Aid For Students In Malaysia : What Is It?

On January 9, 2023, the government of Malaysia announced the Early Aid For Education (BAP – Bantuan Awal Persekolahan), which is meant to lighten the load for parents or guardians at the beginning of the school year.

To that end, the Malaysia government will give a one-time financial aid of RM150 to every student attending Standard 1 through Form 5 for the 2023/2024 school year.

The BAP funds will be channeled to each school, and it will be up to the individual school to distribute the money to the student, or credit it into the bank account of his/her parent or guardian.

Recommended : 2023 / 2024 Malaysia School Term + Holiday Calendar!

 

RM150 BAP Aid For Students In Malaysia : FAQ

Here are some answers to frequently-asked questions about the RM150 BAP aid for students in Malaysian schools.

Qualification Criteria

  1. The student must be a Malaysian citizen.
  2. The student must be attending Standard 1 through Form 5, or their equivalent for the 2023/2024 school term.
  3. The student must be attending:
    – government school (SK)
    – government-aided school (SBK)
    – religious school
    – private school registered with the government
    – Sekolah Bimbingan Jalinan Kasih (SBJK)
    – Sekolah Integriti
    – Henry Gurney school

How Will BAP Funds Be Given To Students?

The BAP funds will be distributed to each school, and each school’s administration will either distribute the funds to each student as cash, or credited to their a bank account of their parents / guardian.

When Will BAP Funds Be Given To Students?

The BAP funds will be credited into the school accounts from 12 January 2023 onwards.

Thereafter, it will be up to each school to distribute the BAP funds to the students.

What Documents Will You Need?

Students and parents are not required to fill any form, but the student or parent will likely be required by the school to sign a form to acknowledge receipt of the the BAP financial aid.

The schools may also require parents or guardians to physically come to the school with the student’s birth certificate for verification.

What If You Cannot Make It For The Appointed Day?

Please note that once the school has organised a collection date, at least one parent or guardian must attend to collect the BAP financial aid of RM150, and sign the acknowledgement form.

If you fail to turn up, the BAP financial aid will be forfeit, and the money returned to the Malaysia Ministry of Education.

Recommended : 2023 School Days + Holidays For Malaysia!

 

RM150 BAP Aid For Students In Malaysia : Sample Notice

On 16 January 2023, SK Bandar Utama Damansara (4) issued a letter to the parents and guardians of their students, which I have translated into English below.

All parents should receive a similar letter, but please note that the dates, collection time, and procedure may differ, as that is up to each school to determine how to distribute the money.

NOTICE OF EARLY SCHOOL ASSISTANCE (BAP) YEAR 2023

With respect to the above matter.

2. Please be informed that the school has received the payment of Early School Assistance (BAP) for the year 2023. Therefore, we are pleased to invite you to come to the school to receive the Special Assistance of RM 150.00 and sign the Acceptance Declaration Form. Aid distribution details are as below.

Date: January 18, 2023
Time: 1.30 to 3.30 pm
Place: According to each child’s class

3. Please bring your child’s original birth certificate for the teacher’s verification. Only students who are citizens are eligible for this financial assistance. If you are unable to make it, the aid will be returned to the Malaysian Ministry of Education.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Education | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

New 10% Sales Tax On Cheap Imports In April 2023!

The Malaysian government will implement a new 10% sales tax on cheap import, starting 1 April 2023!

Here is what you need to know about the new sales tax on low value goods that are imported into Malaysia!

 

New 10% Sales Tax On Cheap Imports In April 2023!

From 1 April 2023 onwards, the Royal Malaysia Customs Department (RMCD) will start collecting a new 10% sales tax on all low value goods (LVG) worth less than RM 500 that are sold online, and delivered from overseas to customers in Malaysia, except:

  • duty-free islands like Labuan, Langkawi, Tioman and Pangkor
  • designated duty-free zones in airports, etc.

The 10% sales tax will apply only on overseas low-value goods (worth less than RM 500) purchased online from 1 April 2023 onwards. It will not be imposed on delivery charges or insurance paid to import the item.

For example, if you purchase an item that costs RM 450 from an online shopping portal, with a delivery charge of RM 15.

Before 1 April 2023, you will pay only RM 465 (RM 450 for the item + RM 15 for the delivery costs).

From 1 April 2023 onwards, you will need to pay RM 510 (RM 450 for the item + RM 45 for the new 10% sales tax + RM 15 for the delivery costs).

The online shopping portal will add the new sales tax, so you are aware of the final price before purchasing the item from 1 April 2023 onwards.

Even though the sales tax does not apply to delivery charges or insurance fees, you should expect to pay close to 9%-10% extra for imported low-value goods purchased online.

It should also be noted that Malaysia implemented a 6% service tax on delivery services (except for food and beverages) in July 2022.

Read more : New Taxes On Small Online Purchases + Delivery In Malaysia!

 

New 10% Sales Tax On Cheap Imports : Frequently Asked Questions!

Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about the new 10% sales tax on low-value imported goods in Malaysia:

Question : When will the new 10% sales tax on imported low value goods begin?

The new 10% sales tax applies from 1 April 2023 onwards when you make payment, not on delivery of goods.

For example, if you purchase an item on 31 March 2023 and…:

  • pay on purchase (31 March) : you won’t have to pay the 10% sales tax, even if you eventually receive the item on April 5, 2023
  • pay on delivery : you will have to pay the 10% sales tax if the item is delivered on or after 1 April 2023.

Question : What goods are affected by the new 10% sales tax on imported low value goods?

The 10% sales tax applies to all low-value goods (worth less than RM500) purchased online, except:

  • cigarettes and other tobacco products
  • smoking pipes, including pipe bowls
  • electronic cigarettes, and similar electric vapourising devices
  • non-nicotine liquid or gel preparations used for vaping (e-cigarette smoking) devices
  • intoxicating liquor, and other imported alcohol

Recommended : Watch Out For TNG eWallet SMS Phishing Scam!

Question : If you are a LVG seller, must you register with the RMCD?

The Royal Malaysia Customs Department (RMCD) only requires such sellers to register with them:

  • sell low value goods (worth less than RM500) online,
  • that are delivered from overseas,
  • with more than RM500,000 in total sale value of low-value goods brought into Malaysia in 12 months (defined as the immediate past 12 months before registration, or the current month and the next 11 months)

The RMCD structured it this way so that only large online shops or e-commerce platforms need to register with it, to help collect the new sales tax.

If you are selling your low-value goods through an e-commerce platform like Shopee or Lazada, they will handle the sales tax on your behalf.

Question : How does the sales tax system work for sellers?

Sellers who must register with the RMCD, should do so through the MyLVG online system, using the LVG-01 form. Registration is open from 1 January 2023 onwards.

The seller is required to declare the collected sales tax to the RMCD every three months through the MyLVG system using the LVG-02 form, and pay the collected tax to the RMCD by the last day of the next month.

For example, the ABC e-commerce platform collected RM 1 million in sales tax from April to June 2023.

It must submit its LVG-02 form and pay the collected RM 1 million by 31 July 2023.

If the seller makes a mistake and overpaid the collected tax, it can apply for a refund using the LVG-03 form.

The seller can also cancel its registration using the MyLVG system, if it no longer sells low-value goods, or if the total sales value of LVG in 12 months does not exceed RM 500,000.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Business | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Are Push Pocket Criminals Targeting Tourists In KL?!

Are criminals using new push pocket tactics to target foreigners and tourists in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia?!

Take a look at the viral claim, and find out what the facts really are!

 

Claim : KL Criminals Are Using New Push Pocket Tactics!

People are sharing this message about the new Push Pocket crimes in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia!

It’s a long message, so feel free to skip to the next section for the facts.

Genuine message posted by a law firm in Malaysia. If you’re going to KL, take note!

PUSH-POCKET IN KUALA LUMPUR

I am sure you all have heard of ‘pick pocket’. A new trend ‘push pocket’. Read on.. for your own good.

A few days ago a new type of crime has surfaced in town. It goes something like this:-

Somebody slips a hand-phone into your pocket, sometimes it could be just a wallet with an identity card and a few ringgit.

Recommended : Why NYPD Arrested Dax Tejera’s Wife After His Death!

 

Truth : KL Criminals Are Not Using New Push Pocket Tactics!

This is yet another example of FAKE NEWS circulating on WhatsApp and social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, and here are the reasons why…

Fact #1 : Push Pocket Is A Form Of Extortion

The so-called Push Pocket tactic is nothing new. It is a type of extortion scam, in which the criminal accuses the victim of being a thief – in a reversal of the usual pickpocket tactic.

A similar kind of tactic, called Zig-Zag, was reportedly being used in airports in Thailand, where tourists were allegedly accused of shoplifting in duty-free shops, and had to pay fees to avoid arrest.

Fact #2 : Viral Push Pocket Message Date Back To 2008

This viral message about the push pocket scam in Kuala Lumpur isn’t new. As far as I can tell, it dates back to at least 2008, when it was even shared on TripAdvisor by worried tourists.

It was given some prominence when The Star asked people to “beware of the push pocket scam” in October 2009. Since then, it has been reposted regularly in forums, on social media platforms, and WhatsApp groups.

Fact #3 : PDRM Has Received No Reports On Such Scams

After the message went viral again in January 2023, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) chimed in on the controversy on January 4, 2023.

PDRM secretary, Deputy Commissioner Datuk Norsiah Mohd Saaduddin said that checks showed PDRM has never received any report about such scams.

The public are urged to not fall for messages that have no basis and are not verified. Sharing or spreading such news can cause unrest and worry amongst the public.

Recommended : China Caught Lab Workers Paid To Spread Covid-19?!

Fact #4 : Malaysia Has Laws + CCTV Cameras

Frankly speaking, it is improbable for such crimes to be committed, at least in airports and LRT or MRT stations, because they are covered by CCTV cameras. Malaysia is also not a lawless country, where police officers are blatantly corrupt and turn a blind eye to such crimes.

If a foreigner is accused of stealing from a local resident, the police in Malaysia will investigate and the CCTV footage will show that the foreign tourist did not steal anything.

And if there’s no CCTV footage, it doesn’t mean the foreign tourist gets jailed automatically. That means there is no evidence the foreign tourist stole the item, and therefore, the police have no right to arrest him/her.

Please help us fight fake news – SHARE this article, and SUPPORT our work!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Fact Check | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Scam Alert : Fake Damar Hamlin Donation Requests!

Please watch out for fake donation requests for Damar Hamlin who suffered a cardiac arrest during a primetime NFL game!

 

Scam Alert : Fake Damar Hamlin Donation Requests!

After Damar Hamlin suddenly collapsed from cardiac arrest during the primetime NFL game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, his GoFundMe page has exploded with donations – at publication time, it raised over $7.7 million!

However, scammers are apparently also trying to milk public concern for Damar Hamlin, and his family relayed a warning through his friend and marketing rep, Jordon Rooney, about people requesting cash app and GoFundMe donations in his name.

Damars parents wanted me to get this out there:

Beware of people requesting cash app donations and making GoFundMe’s.

If you do want to support Damar’s foundation, his initial toy drive campaign has turned into the central location for that.

Recommended : Did Damar Hamlin Collapse From Vaccine SADS?!

 

Damar Hamlin Donation Shifted From GoFundMe To Website

To avoid further confusion, the Chasing M’s Foundation created a new website to handle the donations directly.

When Rooney announced the new website, he shared that Chasing M’s Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organisation that is dedicated to “supporting the aspirations of youth and community members through sports, education, and enrichment opportunities“.

The executive director, Mario Hamlin, ask that people who wish to donate to the foundation, please do so through the new website. He also asked that people consider donating to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center trauma center, or buy your trauma center team and first responders lunch.

The Hamlin family appears to be making these moves to curb the donation scams that have mushroomed over public support for Damar Hamlin.

So please do NOT donate to any other Damar Hamlin initiatives, cash app requests, or GoFundMe pages. The only legitimate avenues for donations towards Damar Hamlin are:

  • The Chasing M’s Foundation website
  • University of Cincinnati Trauma Center

Alternatively, you can show your appreciation for first responders and trauma teams in your area, by buying them lunch.

Read more : Damar Hamlin Shows Improvement, Asked Who Won!

 

The Real Damar Hamlin Donation GoFundMe Page!

When he was still in college at the University of Pittsburgh, Damar Hamlin started a toy drive on GoFundMe called The Chasing M’s Foundation Community Toy Drive.

Its first program with a 2020 Community Toy Drive, which set a goal of just $2,500 to buy toys for “children who have been hardest hit by the pandemic”.

As I embark on my journey to the NFL, I will never forget where I come from and I am committed to using my platform to positively impact the community that raised me. I created The Chasing M’s Foundation as a vehicle that will allow me to deliver that impact, and the first program is the 2020 Community Toy Drive. 

This campaign gives you the opportunity to contribute to our first initiative and positively impact children who have been hardest hit by the pandemic. 100% of the funds raised will go toward the purchase of toys for kids in need. The time to act is now, as we will be distributing toys on December 22nd from 3:30 to 5:30 PM from Kelly and Nina’s Daycare Center at 800 Russellwood Ave., McKees Rocks, PA 15136. 

If you are not able to contribute monetarily, you can support this initiative in other ways. We are accepting donated toys at the Daycare Center or simply spread the word by sharing this fundraiser on your social channels. 

Thank you so much for supporting me on and off the field. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with you to help make the holiday season a little brighter for the kids in our community.

Damar Hamlin
The Chasing M’s Foundation

After Damar Hamlin’s sudden collapse on the field, and subsequent hospitalisation in critical condition, his family reused the GoFundMe page to continue funding his community initiatives.

This fundraiser was initially established to support a toy drive for Damar’s community, sponsored by the Chasing M’s Foundation.

However, it has received renewed support in light of Damar’s current battle and we can’t thank all of you enough. Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us.

If you would like to show your support and contribute to Damar’s community initiatives and his current fight, this is the place to do so. This is the only current fund that is being used by the Hamlin Family.

Again, thank you for your thoughts, prayers and generous support during this time.

Damar created The Chasing M’s Foundation to use as a vehicle to bring lasting impact to his community. The foundation supports toy drives, back-to-school drives, kids camps, and more.

 

Damar Hamlin Donation Not Used To Support His Mother’s Daycare

Jordon Rooney also clarified that the official Damar Hamlin GoFundMe donation page is not being used to fund his mother’s daycare centre.

He explained that it was set up as a toy drive during his college days, and the toy giveaway was held at his mother’s daycare centre. Hence, the address listed in the GoFundMe is still his mother’s daycare centre.

Donations sent to his official GoFundMe would be used to support his foundation, which now does more than just toy drives, but also back to school drives, kids camps and more.

This came after sports business analyst Darren Rovell posted that the Damar Hamlin’s official GoFundMe would fund his mother’s daycare centre.

Damars GoFundMe does not support his mother’s daycare.. This was a toy drive that he set when he was in college and held it at the daycare.

The donations will support his foundation, which does toy drives, back to school drive, kids camps and more. Yeah

Please WARN OTHER PEOPLE  by sharing this fact check article out, and please SUPPORT our work!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Cybersecurity | SportsTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Watch Out For TNG eWallet SMS Phishing Scam!

In this article, we will show you many types of TNG eWallet SMS phasing scam, so you can avoid them!

 

Watch Out For TNG eWallet SMS Phishing Scam!

People are getting these SMS messages that appear to be from TNG eWallet, but are really just phishing scams!

RMO TNG eWallet: Bantuan e-dompet kepada golongan B40&M40 RM1000 akan dikreditkan ke dalam TNG eWallet anda. Kemaskini maklumat dan semakan status di www.tngewalletbantuangov.com

RMO T’n GO Your account function has been closed. You need to confirm the device immediately. Follow my.tngwallc.com

RMO TNG Wallet: Permohonan GOpinjam anda telah diluluskan, RM3000 telah kredit ke TNG Wallet anda. Sila semak baki dan tuntutan anda di http://logtouchngo.cc

RMO GOV: Terima kasih atas sokongan anda dari kerajaan BN. Bantuan e-dompet kepada rakyat Malaysia berjumlah RM500 telah kredit ke TNG Wallet anda. Sila sahkan identiti dan semak baki anda di https://touchngoemy.top/

 

How TNG eWallet SMS Phishing Scam Works!

The many examples of the TNG eWallet phishing scam employ SMS spoofing technology to send you SMS messages that appear to be from the TNG eWallet team.

What most people don’t know is that – the TNG eWallet team will never send you any SMS messages to :

  • offer you money from government or other agencies
  • inform you that money has been credited to your eWallet
  • ask you to log into your eWallet account using a link
  • ask you to update your account information using a link

The TNG eWallet team warned users against clicking on any links sent by SMS, even if they appear to be genuine. Genuine TNG eWallet SMS messages will never have a link attached.

These links do not lead to the real TNG eWallet website (https://www.touchngo.com.my/), but use similar-looking fake domains, like:

tngewalletbantuangov.com
my.tngwallc.com
logtouchngo.cc
touchngoemy.top
ewallettouchng.top
touchngosign.com
touchngolog.top
logintouchngo.cc
touchngo.life
touchngologin.cc
my.touchngo.com
my.touchwalf.com
my.touchwalp.com
my.tngowalle.com
my.tngowallet.com
tngwallet.top

If you see such domains, you should be alert that you are being targeted by a phishing scam. NEVER CLICK ON A LINK in any TNG eWallet SMS.

If you click on any of these links, you will be taken to a page that looks like a genuine TNG eWallet login page, but is really a phishing scam page.

If you key in your login details, as well as your phone number and One-Time Password (OTP), the scammers will have full access to your eWallet, and can freely transfer out your eWallet balance.

As many of us link our credit cards to the TNG eWallet, the scammers can also reload your eWallet using those credit cards, and transfer the money out.

So make sure you IGNORE any SMS message that asks you to click on a link, even if it appears to be from TNG eWallet.

Please help to fight financial scams, by SHARING this article with your family and friends!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Cybersecurity | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

SBF Allegedly Hid $8 Billion In Korean Friend Account!

The CFTC just alleged that Sam Bankman-Fried (better known as SBF) hid $8 billion of Alameda liabilities in a “Korean friend” account on the FTX crypto exchange!

 

SBF Allegedly Hid $8B Liabilities In Korean Friend Account!

In the spring of 2022, Alameda Research experienced a large number of margin and loan recalls following a major downturn in the crypto markets. To meet its external debt obligations, the trading firm “greatly increased” its usage of customer funds.

By the middle of 2022, Alameda’s total fiat liability with FTX was around $8 billion. That was when, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) alleged, Sam Bankman-Fried (better known as SBF) directed his executives to move approximately $8 billion of Alameda liabilities into an unknown customer account, which he would later refer to as “our Korean friend’s account” and/or “the weird Korean account”.

The CFTC added that even though this was a sub-account under Alameda, it was labelled as “FTX fiat old” and did not have the usual @alameda-research.com email account identifier. Instead, it was stored in an internal account in the FTX database as “fiat@ftx.com”

This allowed the liabilities in that account to be hidden on FTX ledgers. Yet, the “Korean friend” account had the same privileges as Alameda’s other accounts, including exemption from liquidation characteristics.

Recommended : SBF Flew Business As Judge Recuses From FTX Case!

 

FTX Korean Friend Account Had Special Privileges!

The “Korean friend” account had privileges to execute a transaction on FTX, even if it did not have the funds to do so. It was accomplished through a piece of code labeled as “allow negative flag”.

Separately, Bloomberg reported on December 14, that a GitHub account under the name Nishad Singh (FTX’s former engineering director), created or annotated code linked to that “Korean friend” account.

Looking back at what SBF said about Alameda, the signs were there that Alameda Research was likely losing money hand over fist.

Back in September 2022, SBF said that they should have shut down Alameda Research a year ago – before it was hit by the crypto winter.

I only started thinking about this today, and so haven’t vetted it much yet. But I think it might be time for Alameda Research to shut down. Honestly, it was probably time to do that a year ago.

By the time he made that comment, SBF probably knew that it would be a matter of time before his house of cards came falling down…

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Business | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

SBF Flew Business As Judge Recuses From FTX Case!

The FTX drama continues as SBF was seen flying business class, while Judge Ronnie Abrams recused herself from the case!

 

Judge Ronnie Abrams Recuses From SBF FTX Case!

The FTX drama continues with the shocking announcement by US District Judge Ronnie Abrams over a potential conflict of interest.

On Friday afternoon, December 23, Federal Judge Ronnie Abrams of the US District Court for the Southern District of New York recused herself from the FTX case.

The judge’s husband, Greg D. Andres, is a partner at the law firm Davis Polk & Wardwell, which advised FTX in 2021. Though Andres himself did not personally advise FTX, Abrams chose to recuse herself from the case “to avoid any possible conflict, or the appearance of one.

The order also stated that Davis Polk & Wardwell previously represented parties “that may be adverse to FTX and Defendant Bankman-Fried,” though Andres allegedly did not represent those clients either.

RONNIE ABRAMS, United States District Judge:

It has come to the Court’s attention that the law firm of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, at which my husband is a partner, advised FTX in 2021, as well as represented parties that may be adverse to FTX and Defendant Bankman-Fried in other proceedings (or potential proceedings). My husband has had no involvement in any of these representations. These matters are confidential and their substance is unknown to the Court. Nonetheless, to avoid any possible conflict, or the appearance of one, the Court hereby recuses itself from this action. See 28

U.S.C. § 455.

This decision came just one day after Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) was released from custody pending trial on eight criminal charges including wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and violations of federal campaign finance laws.

It is unknown why Judge Ronnie Abrams chose to wait until now to recuse herself from the FTX case. But it should be pointed that it was a different judge – Gabrial Gorenstein, who approved the record-setting $250 million bond that did not require SBF to pay a single cent up front.

A new judge from the Southern District of New York will now have to be selected to oversee Sam Bankman-Fried’s trial.

Read more : SBF Released On “No Cash” $250 Million Bail Bond!

 

SBF Free + Flying Business On “No Cash Up Front” FTX Case Bail!

In the meantime, the disgraced FTX co-founder was spotted “chilling” in the American Airlines Greenwich Business Class lounge located at Terminal 8 of the John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York City.

Sam Bankman-Fried was accompanied by his parents, FBI agents and lawyers. He had full access to what looks like an Acer Predator gaming laptop, and a smartphone. When he was asked for a photo, SBF replied, “Haha maybe not today“.

You may recall that, on December 9, SBF claimed that he did not have access to (much of) his professional or personal data, despite having obvious access to a laptop and a mobile phone.

1) I still do not have access to much of my data — professional or personal. So there is a limit to what I will be able to say, and I won’t be as helpful as I’d like. But as the committee still thinks it would be useful, I am willing to testify on the 13th.

SBF was later spotted in the Business class section of an American Airlines flight, “disguised with a beanie”. He appeared to be engaged in conversation with a suited executive.

The suited executive could be his lawyer, Mark Cohen, who may have been accompanying the disgraced FTX co-founder to his parents’ home in Palo Alto, California, where he has to serve his house arrest while awaiting trial.

Recommended : Caroline Ellison, Gary Wang Plead Guilty To FTX Fraud!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Business | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

SBF Released On “No Cash” $250 Million Bail Bond!

Sam Bankman-Fried, better known as SBF, has been released on a “no cash up front” $250 million bail bond!

 

SBF Released On “No Cash Up Front” $250 Million Bail Bond!

FTX co-founder Sam Bankman-Fried, better known as SBF, has been released on a $250 million bond, but guess what – it does not actually require him to come up with the cash.

Instead, the release agreement showed that SBF was being released on a $250 million personal recognisance bond that was secured by his parents’ five-bedroom home in Palo Alto.

If SBF fails to appear in court, or violate other conditions of his bail, then the property would be seized. That property is estimated to be worth only $4 million.

In addition to his two parents, the bond must be signed by two other people (one of whom cannot be a relative) by January 5, 2023; and they would all be on hook for the $250 million bail.

This “no cash up front” bail deal was worked out between SBF’s legal team and US prosecutors, which included his agreement to be extradited to the United States.

New York federal court Judge Gabriel Gorenstein released him, subject to detention at his parents’ home while wearing an electronic monitoring bracelet, with mandatory mental health counselling and substance abuse treatment.

SBF had to surrender his passport under the bail agreement, and was stricter to travel to the Northern District of California, or the Southern and Eastern districts of New York for court appearances.

Recommended : Caroline Ellison, Gary Wang Plead Guilty To FTX Fraud!

This was a fraud of epic proportions. If that was the only test, detention would likely be appropriate. But he voluntarily consented to extradition. That should be given weight.

If he had resisted, we would have opposed release. But his assets have diminished. This is a financial crime and he no longer works for FTX or Alameda. So the risk to the community is a marginal consideration. We propose a restrictive bail package.

– Assistant US Attorney Nick Roos

Sam Bankman-Fried faces up to 115 years in prison if convicted on all eight counts of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit securities fraud, money laundering, and violating campaign finance laws in his cryptocurrency exchange company, FTX.

His next hearing is set for January 3, 2022, and his defence is expected to be complicated by the fact that two of his chief lieutenants – Caroline Ellison and Gary Wang pleaded guilty and are now cooperating with investigations.

But until that he is convicted, SBF will be free to enjoy life at home, catching up on Netflix or the computer games he loves to play. Living with his parents may not be what every 30+ young man likes, but it sure beats jail in the Bahamas!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Business | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Caroline Ellison, Gary Wang Plead Guilty To FTX Fraud!

Both Caroline Ellison and Gary Wang just pleaded guilty to criminal charges related to the collapse of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange!

 

Caroline Ellison, Gary Wang Plead Guilty To FTX Fraud!

Caroline Ellison and Gary Wang – two close partners of Sam Bankman-Fried, plead guilty to criminal charges related to the collapse of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange. They are now helping investigators with their investigations, in exchange for reduced sentencing.

The charges, guilty pleas and their cooperation with investigators occurred earlier, but was kept quiet until Sam Bankman-Fried (better know as SBF) was safely on a flight to the US from the Bahamas after he agreed to voluntary extradition.

SBF landed in New York at 10 PM local time on December 21, and Southern District of New York attorney Damian Williams announced that Caroline Ellison and Gary Wang pleaded guilty to charges “related to their roles in the fraud that contributed to FTX’s collapse”.

As I said last week, this investigation is ongoing and moving very quickly. I also said last week’s announcement would not be our last and let me be clear once again, neither is today’s.

I’m announcing that SDNY has filed charges against Caroline Ellison […] and Gary Wang […] in connection with their roles in the frauds that contributed to FTX’s collapse. Both Ms. Ellison and Mr. Wang have plead guilty to those charges and both are cooperating with the SDNY.

Caroline Ellison was the head of Alameda Research – the trading firm started by SBF, which allegedly had “a virtually unlimited line of credit” funded by FTX customers. A former Google employee and MIT graduate, Gary Wang co-founded FTX with Sam Bankman-Fried.

Ellison plead guilty to seven charges, which could result in up to 110 years of jail time. Gary Wang plead guilty to four charges. However, more charges could follow if investigators find evidence of other crimes.

Read more : SEC Charges Reveal Fraud Committed By SBF In FTX!

 

Caroline Ellison, Gary Wang Also Faces SEC Charges

These criminal charges were paired with civil charges by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which accused Ellison, Wang and Sam Bankman-Fried of securities violations related to FTX’s cryptocurrency, FTT.

The SEC also noted that both Ellison and Wang are cooperating with its ongoing investigations.

Washington D.C., Dec. 21, 2022 — The Securities and Exchange Commission today charged Caroline Ellison, the former CEO of Alameda Research, and Zixiao (Gary) Wang, the former Chief Technology Officer of FTX Trading Ltd. (FTX), for their roles in a multiyear scheme to defraud equity investors in FTX, the crypto trading platform co-founded by Samuel Bankman-Fried and Wang. Investigations into other securities law violations and into other entities and persons relating to the alleged misconduct are ongoing.

According to the SEC’s complaint, between 2019 and 2022, Ellison, at the direction of Bankman-Fried, furthered the scheme by manipulating the price of FTT, an FTX-issued exchange crypto security token, by purchasing large quantities on the open market to prop up its price. FTT served as collateral for undisclosed loans by FTX of its customers’ assets to Alameda, a crypto hedge fund owned by Wang and Bankman-Fried and run by Ellison. The complaint alleges that, by manipulating the price of FTT, Bankman-Fried and Ellison caused the valuation of Alameda’s FTT holdings to be inflated, which in turn caused the value of collateral on Alameda’s balance sheet to be overstated, and misled investors about FTX’s risk exposure.

In addition, the complaint alleges that, from at least May 2019 until November 2022, Bankman-Fried raised billions of dollars from investors by falsely touting FTX as a safe crypto asset trading platform with sophisticated risk mitigation measures to protect customer assets and by telling investors that Alameda was just another customer with no special privileges; meanwhile, Bankman-Fried and Wang improperly diverted FTX customer assets to Alameda. The complaint alleges that Ellison and Wang knew or should have known that such statements were false and misleading. 

The complaint also alleges that Ellison and Wang were active participants in the scheme to deceive FTX’s investors and engaged in conduct that was critical to its success. The complaint alleges that Wang created FTX’s software code that allowed Alameda to divert FTX customer funds, and Ellison used misappropriated FTX customer funds for Alameda’s trading activity. The complaint further alleges that, even as it became clear that Alameda and FTX could not make customers whole, Bankman-Fried, with the knowledge of Ellison and Wang, directed hundreds of millions of dollars more in FTX customer funds to Alameda.

The SEC is calling for a civil penalty, and a ban for Ellison and Wang to ever serve as a company director or officer, as well as “disgorgement of their ill-gotten gains”, and an injunction against future securities violations and limiting them to only buy and sell securities for their own accounts.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Business | MoneyTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

SEC Charges Reveal Fraud Committed By SBF In FTX!

FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, popularly known as SBF, has just been charged with fraud by the SEC.

Take a look at the charges the SEC brought against SBF, and find out what they reveal about the fraud committed at FTX!

 

FTX Founder SBF Arrested, Awaiting US Extradition!

On Monday, December 12, 2022, the Royal Bahamas Police Force arrested FTX founder, Sam Bankman-Fried who is popularly known as SBF in the cryptocurrency community.

SBF was arrested after the United States government formally notified the Bahamas government that it filed criminal charges and is likely to request his extradition.

The Attorney General of the Bahamas then ordered SBF’s arrest, to hold him in custody until a formal request for extradition comes forth. Then the Bahamas intends to process the extradition request “promptly”.

Read more : FTX Founder SBF Arrested, Awaiting US Extradition!

 

SEC Charges Reveal Fraud Committed By SBF In FTX!

On Tuesday, December 13, 2022, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) charged SBF with “orchestrating a scheme to defraud equity investors in FTX Trading Ltd. (FTX)”.

The SEC also sought injunctions against future securities law violations, an injunction against SBF participating in securities (except for his personal account), the disgorgement of his “ill-gotten gains”, a civil penalty, and barring him from being an officer or director of any company.

“We allege that Sam Bankman-Fried built a house of cards on a foundation of deception while telling investors that it was one of the safest buildings in crypto,” said SEC Chair Gary Gensler. “The alleged fraud committed by Mr. Bankman-Fried is a clarion call to crypto platforms that they need to come into compliance with our laws.”

FTX Customer Funds Funnelled To Alameda

The SEC accused SBF of funnelling FTX customer funds to Alameda Research, which were then used to fund speculative investments, and provide large loans to Bankman-Fried and top FTX executives.

Customer Funds Used For Real Estate Purchases

SBF allegedly used the commingled funds from Alameda to pay for massive real estate purchases, including office space and luxury condominiums in The Bahamas.

“FTX operated behind a veneer of legitimacy Mr. Bankman-Fried created by, among other things, touting its best-in-class controls, including a proprietary ‘risk engine,’ and FTX’s adherence to specific investor protection principles and detailed terms of service. But as we allege in our complaint, that veneer wasn’t just thin, it was fraudulent,” said Gurbir S. Grewal, Director of the SEC’s Division of Enforcement.

Recommended : Terraform CEO Do Kwon Found Hiding In Serbia!

Customer Funds Used For Political Contributions

The SEC also alleged that SBF used commingled funds to fund political contributions. He was one of the top political donors in the 2022 election cycle.

SBF Was Both Borrower + Lender

According to the SEC, Sam Bankman-Fried was both the borrower and the lender in two instances. SBF also executed more than $1 billion from promissory notes for loans from Alameda Research.

SBF Accused Of Misleading Investors

The SEC also alleged that SBF misled investors into believing that FTX was a safe and responsible crypto asset trading platform, thus allowing FTX to raise more than $1.8 billion in funds from 90 US investors.

FTX Exposure To Alameda Not Disclosed

The SEC also alleged that Sam Bankman-Fried failed to disclose FTX’s deep exposure to Alameda, or how he was diverting FTX customer funds to Alameda for its own trading operations, or other purposes that SBF saw fit.

There was no meaningful distinction between FTX customer funds and Alameda’s own funds. Bankman-Fried thus gave Alameda carte blanche to use FTX customer assets for its own trading operations and for whatever other purposes Bankman-Fried saw fit.

Recommended : Binance Smart Chain Halts After $100M Crypto Theft!

The complaint alleges that, in reality, Bankman-Fried orchestrated a years-long fraud to conceal from FTX’s investors

(1) the undisclosed diversion of FTX customers’ funds to Alameda Research LLC, his privately-held crypto hedge fund;

(2) the undisclosed special treatment afforded to Alameda on the FTX platform, including providing Alameda with a virtually unlimited “line of credit” funded by the platform’s customers and exempting Alameda from certain key FTX risk mitigation measures; and

(3) undisclosed risk stemming from FTX’s exposure to Alameda’s significant holdings of overvalued, illiquid assets such as FTX-affiliated tokens.

The complaint further alleges that Bankman-Fried used commingled FTX customers’ funds at Alameda to make undisclosed venture investments, lavish real estate purchases, and large political donations.

In addition to the SEC charges, the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) also announced charges against Sam Bankman-Fried.

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Money | BusinessTech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

Exit mobile version