By Jassmine Shadiqe
JOHOR BARU: The Johor Immigration Department has denied involvement in a fraudulent donation drive letter falsely using its name, and has urged the public to remain alert to scams exploiting its official identity.
The forged letter, which includes fake payment receipts, claims to solicit donations from the public and business community for a corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme involving 500 orphans.
In a statement today, Johor Immigration director Datuk Mohd Rusdi Mohd Darus said the department did not issue any fundraising appeal or donation drive, nor were any official receipts circulated.
Members of the public have been warned against responding to suspicious messages, including those sent via SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat or phone calls referencing the scam.
Rusdi urged anyone who may have made payments in relation to the fake campaign to lodge a police report immediately for further investigation.
"The misuse of our official name and emblem is a serious offence. Action will be taken against any party found guilty of misleading the public," he said.
Rusdi also reminded the public not to be easily deceived by unsolicited requests, especially those exploiting the name of government agencies under the guise of charity.
Source : johor-immigration-denies-link-bogus-donation-appeal