Safety & Trust Center
Your safety is our priority. While we vet our partners, we urge all users to stay vigilant. Here are essential tips to protect yourself from scams and make informed decisions.
Golden Rules: Never Ignore These
Rule #1: Never Pay to Personal Accounts
Do NOT transfer deposits, booking fees, or "locking fees" to personal bank accounts.
Legitimate businesses always use company accounts (Sdn Bhd or registered agency). If someone insists on a personal transfer, it's a scam. Full stop.
Rule #2: Inspect Before Payment
Always view the property or vehicle in person before committing financially.
Scammers claim to be "overseas" or unavailable. If you can't see it in person, do NOT proceed. Video calls are not enough—physical inspection is mandatory.
Rule #3: Verify Identity & Credentials
Always check the agent's REN tag, dealer's SSM, or professional license.
Ask for official ID, take photos, and verify on government databases. VEXA's verified badge is helpful but not a substitute for independent checking.
Rule #4: Use Official Payment Methods
Prefer bank transfers to registered company accounts, cashier's checks, or escrow services.
Avoid cash-only deals, cryptocurrency, or money transfers like Western Union. These cannot be reversed if scammed.
Red Flags: Watch Out For These Signs
Property & Rental Scams
Suspiciously Low Prices: If the rent is 20-30% below market rate, it's likely fake.
Pressure to Decide Quickly: "Act now or I'll rent to someone else" — classic scam tactic.
Photos from Google/Generic Stock Images: Check reverse image search on Google Images.
Requests for Upfront "Administrative Fees": No legitimate landlord charges admin fees before viewing.
Unwilling to Meet in Person: Red flag. Insist on physical viewings with the landlord present.
Poor Grammar & Spelling: Many overseas scammers have weak English in listings.
Car Buying Scams
Flood Damage Hidden: Check for rust, water stains, and bad odors. Get a professional inspection.
Odometer Tampering: Verify mileage at a workshop. Mismatch = scam.
Missing or Fake Documents: Always verify roadtax, insurance, and ownership papers with JPJ.
Outstanding Loans or Accidents: Run a JPJ/MyLPR report before purchase.
Pressure for Immediate Cash Payment: Legitimate dealers offer financing or bank transfers.
No Service History or Warranty: "As-is" sales often hide major issues.
Service Professional Scams
No Portfolio or References: Ask for past client photos and contact numbers.
Vague Pricing: Legitimate pros provide detailed quotes and cost breakdowns.
100% Payment Upfront: Standard is 30-50% deposit, rest upon completion.
No Written Contract: Always get a signed scope of work and timeline.
No Insurance or License: Ask for proof of business registration and liability insurance.
How to Verify a Professional on VEXA
1. Verify REN Tag (Property Agents)
Ask the agent for their REN (Real Estate Negotiator) tag number. This should be visible on VEXA's verified badge.
Steps:
- Go to LPPEH website
- Search by REN tag or agent name
- Verify the tag is active (not expired or suspended)
- Check the agency name matches the listing
2. Check SSM Registration (Car Dealers & Service Pros)
Verify that the business is registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).
Steps:
- Visit SSM e-Info
- Search by company name or registration number
- Verify active status and business type
- Check director names and physical address
3. Meet in Person & Verify Identity
Always meet the professional face-to-face before any transaction.
Bring/Check:
- Ask for official ID (NRIC, driving license, or business card)
- Take a photo of their ID (for records)
- Verify their name matches the VEXA profile
- Meet at the business address (not a mall or random location)
4. Use Official Channels
Keep initial communications within the VEXA GLOBAL or officially listed WhatsApp numbers.
Best Practices:
- Save the official WhatsApp number from their VEXA profile
- Avoid private email or social media DMs early on
- Screenshot all agreements and commitments
5. Verify Bank Account Ownership
Before transferring money, verify that the bank account belongs to a registered company.
Steps:
- Use PDRM Semak Mule to check bank account owner
- Account name should match the company (not personal name)
- Ask for an official receipt with company stamp
- Never proceed if the account name doesn't match
Safe Transaction Checklist
Spot Something Suspicious?
If you encounter a fake listing, a suspicious agent, or someone acting unprofessionally, please report it immediately. We take all reports seriously and investigate thoroughly.
Response time: We acknowledge reports within 24 hours and complete investigations within 5 business days.
Emergency Contacts & Resources
Police (PDRM)
Report fraud, scams, or threats to the police immediately.
Consumer Tribunal Malaysia
File a complaint for unfair trading practices or breach of contract.
Website: KPDN.gov.my
Hotline: +603-8772 5000
Credit Card Chargeback
If you paid by credit card, request a chargeback from your bank within 60 days.
Contact Your Bank: Call the number on the back of your card
Provide: Card number, transaction date, merchant name, and fraud proof
Legal Assistance
Consult a lawyer for contract disputes or substantial fraud losses.
Bar Council Malaysia: Find a Lawyer
Legal Clinics: Many provide free consultation for low-income individuals
Useful Government Resources
Stay Safe, Shop Confidently
By following these safety guidelines and using VEXA's verified partners, you can shop with confidence. When in doubt, always verify independently and never rush into payment.
For urgent security concerns, contact our support team immediately at support@vexa.com.my or +60 11-1969 9928