It has been observed through complaints received at various police stations across the island that individuals are being deceived into fraudulently transferring money to accounts linked to organized smugglers and criminals.

These scams are perpetrated by falsely claiming to offer overseas and local job opportunities, prize winnings, or by making false allegations of legal action through social media platforms and telephone calls.

Investigations have further revealed that fraudsters obtain sensitive and confidential information such as bank account details, passwords, One-Time Passwords (OTP), PIN numbers, and QR codes by using deceptive methods, internet links, malicious extensions, and scan codes.

In recent days, the Mirihana Special Crime Investigation Division has received multiple complaints regarding scams in which suspects impersonate bank officials and contact account holders by phone. During these calls, victims are falsely informed that funds linked to narcotics trafficking have been deposited into their accounts.

By creating fear and panic, the fraudsters intimidate victims and compel them to transfer money into bank accounts specified by the suspects.

The Sri Lanka Police have previously informed the public about such fraudulent activities and once again urge citizens to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to the following safety precautions:

• Always check for verified badges and official social media pages.
• Never share bank details, National Identity Card numbers, login credentials, OTPs, passwords, PINS, or personal photographs with third parties.
• Avoid clicking on suspicious or unknown links.
• Use only trusted and verified accounts for financial transactions.
• Verify the identity of recipients before depositing or transferring money.
• Immediately report any suspected fraud to the Cyber Crime Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department.

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