Adrian Katong, hailing from the scenic state of Sabah on Borneo, presents himself online as a dedicated family man. A frequent social media user, he shares images of his family alongside glimpses of a lavish lifestyle—showcasing expensive jewelry, international vacations, the latest tech gadgets, cars, and even a Kawasaki motorcycle.
However, beneath this façade lies a troubling secret. Katong has come under investigation from law enforcement agencies in three different jurisdictions for his involvement in one of the world’s largest phishing operations.
A coordinated investigation by the FBI, the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and the Royal Malaysian Police led to a significant raid on his residence in November last year. During a press briefing, Inspector General Tan Sri Razarudin Husain announced the arrest of eight individuals. Authorities seized an e-wallet worth nearly RM1,000,000 (approximately $319,164), alongside ATM cards, jewelry, and vehicles linked to the criminal network.
The AFP released a statement detailing the success of their extensive investigation. For nearly a decade, Katong is believed to have spearheaded a criminal syndicate that defrauded victims globally, amassing millions through phishing scams.
In Australia, he has emerged as a key player in online tax fraud, reportedly costing the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) over half a billion dollars in just two years. His syndicate also attempted to breach an Australian government agency in September 2020.
Despite these serious allegations, reports indicate that Katong’s operations have not been dismantled. He has yet to face any charges and is currently in the process of rebuilding his business, according to cybercrime forensic investigator Bex Nitert.
