Public warns public of online scam targeting Sri Lankans - 14 foreigners arrested

The Police have requested the public to remain cautious over an online scam pre-dominantly operated by Nigerians and Chinese nationals targeting Sri Lankans.

 

The DIG in charge of Media, Public Relations and IT Range Lal Seneviratne said that fourteen foreign nationals from China, Nigeria and the Philippines have so far been arrested in Sri Lanka in connection to the scam.

 

Nearly Rs. 68 million is suspected to have been defrauded from Sri Lankans and the Police have received 101 complaints with regard to the scam, he said.

 

Elaborating on the scam, DIG Seneviratne said the suspects contact Sri Lankans via email or befriend them on social media, such as Facebook, informing them of gifts or lotteries won overseas. The public are usually lured under the guise of winning a lottery or visa to the US or Canada.

 

The victims are thereafter requested to make an advance payment for customs clearance or as delivery charges. The victims are coaxed into providing details of their bank accounts and credit card details.

 

The DIG further said that the arrest of the 14 foreign nationals has led to the identification of another group also involved in the scam.

 

DIG Lal Seneviratne requested the public to remain vigilant of such scams and to refrain from providing personal details to strangers.

 

Source : News Wire