October is Cyber Security Awareness Week, a time to reflect on the importance of being vigilant against online threats. With the rapid increase in cyber scams, understanding how to protect our personal information is essential to safeguard our finances and privacy.
In Colombo, October 16 — As online scams continue to escalate in Sri Lanka, the Police have issued a warning that hackers are specifically targeting personal accounts. Notably, no incidents involving the hacking of banking systems or financial institutions have been reported either locally or globally.
Police spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa revealed that numerous cases of personal account hacks have resulted in substantial financial losses, with one notable incident where scammers drained approximately Rs. 80 million from an account at a leading private bank. He emphasized that individuals often fall victim to these scams due to negligence, and banks hold no responsibility for the resulting financial losses.
During a recent cabinet briefing, DIG Thalduwa mentioned that over 200 individuals, including Chinese nationals, have been apprehended following police raids on cyber scam operations across various locations in the country. The authorities confiscated around 500 mobile phones and 250 laptops in these raids.
He indicated that many scammers reside in hotels and rental properties, pointing out that some landlords are complicit or at least aware of the scams occurring on their premises. These scammers exploit both local and foreign accounts, defrauding millions in cryptocurrency.
When questioned about the reasons behind Sri Lanka’s appeal to scammers for establishing their operations, DIG Thalduwa suggested that local economic hardships make individuals more susceptible to enticing financial offers, leading them to rent out properties for scam activities.
Meanwhile, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath noted that similar online scams are prevalent in other countries, including Myanmar, where Sri Lankans have also been implicated. He announced that investigations will be initiated to determine if Sri Lanka has become a hotspot for such illicit activities.
In recent weeks, Sri Lankan police have raided two significant online scam camps, and officials warn that many more may exist. They urge the public to remain alert, especially when renting out properties, and to consider factors beyond mere financial gain.
Additionally, Sri Lanka has reached out to China for assistance in combating online scams linked to Chinese nationals. The Chinese Embassy in Colombo has stated that they are closely monitoring the recent arrests of Chinese individuals suspected of online fraud and are supporting Sri Lankan law enforcement in their efforts to address these issues while ensuring the rights of those arrested are respected.
The Embassy has underscored that these fraudulent activities not only jeopardize the property of both nations but also damage China’s reputation and affect the long-standing friendship between Sri Lanka and China. They have pledged to cooperate fully with Sri Lankan authorities in taking decisive action against scammers while safeguarding legitimate rights.