Beware of Data Validation Scam Tactics, Ministry of Hajj Urges Pilgrims to Protect Personal Data
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj), through its Data and Information Technology Centre (Pusdatin), has issued an official advisory regarding the increasing practices of scams targeting prospective Hajj pilgrims. The modus operandi commonly used by perpetrators involves communication via telephone or short messages under the pretext of data verification or updates.
The Head of Pusdatin Kemenhaj, Farosa, explained that this step is a form of prevention to raise public awareness of the threats of personal data misuse.
“This material is prepared as an effort to increase public vigilance against the potential misuse of personal data that can be exploited for fraud up to illegal online loan applications,” said Farosa in his statement on Wednesday (8/4).
Based on findings gathered, there are several patterns of scams frequently carried out by irresponsible parties. Among them, perpetrators contact victims via the WhatsApp application, claiming to be officials from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and requesting updates to personal data.
Additionally, a new modus has emerged in the form of requests for video calls under the guise of facial recording for data validation purposes. This practice is considered high-risk because it can be misused for illegal purposes.
As a precautionary measure, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is campaigning with the slogan #DataAmanIbadahNyaman and reminding the public to always be cautious by verifying the truth of information through the ministry’s official channels, avoiding suspicious links with unclear sources, and not sharing personal data with unknown parties.
Farosa also emphasised that the public who receive suspicious communications are urged to immediately verify or report through the ministry’s official accounts or the nearest regional office.
“The public who receive suspicious communications are asked to immediately report or verify through the official social media accounts of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah or visit the nearest regional ministry office,” he concluded.