Police warn of surge in online financial scams during festive season

The police have warned the public to be very careful when using online services during the festive season due to a rise in financial scams. Many people in Sri Lanka use the internet to buy things and make payments during the Sinhala and Hindu New Year. However, the police have pointed out that this increased online activity has led to more cybercrime. Criminals are using various methods to steal money and personal information. According to a statement from the Police Media Division, complaints received in recent years show that some individuals fall victim to these scams, often due to financial stress and the lure of quick money. Investigations have found that online fraud happens in many ways. These include misleading ads, harmful links, New Year-themed promotions and giveaways, fake trading websites, bogus bank offers, phony bank websites or app updates, QR code scams, phishing emails, SMS scams, imitation websites that look real, and caller ID spoofing. Additionally, scammers often use pictures of well-known people like the President, the Prime Minister, and famous celebrities to gain trust and credibility. There is also a greater risk of targeted phishing, financial scams, and identity theft through the misuse of personal information obtained in dishonest ways. Given these dangers, the police are urging everyone to stay alert, be cautious, and clearly understand online transactions to avoid becoming victims of these crimes.