- Lists 9 common scam types
- Encourages public to verify official pages, use only trusted online platforms, report suspected fraud to Cyber Crime Unit of the CID
The Sri Lanka Police have raised fresh concerns over a sharp increase in online financial fraud, particularly scams carried out through social media platforms, and have identified nine common types of fraud reported across the country as part of a renewed public awareness drive.
Issuing a statement, Police Spokesman ASP F.U. Wootler said the Police are seeking to educate the public about the growing number of financial irregularities and fraudulent activities being committed via the Internet, with Telegram, WhatsApp and other social media platforms emerging as key channels used by fraudsters.
He said that complaints related to online financial fraud are being reported on a daily basis, prompting the Police to take more systematic and planned action in 2026 to address the issue, both through law enforcement and increased public awareness.
According to the Police, victims are frequently deceived into revealing sensitive information such as bank account details, usernames, passwords, One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and QR codes. Fraudsters often pose as providers of online jobs, investment opportunities or other financial benefits, eventually persuading victims to deposit money into multiple accounts under false pretences.
Common types of online financial frauds reported include:
1. Fraudulent Connections (Fake Accounts / Impersonation)
- Creation of fake social media accounts using the names and images of well known individuals or institutions to deceive the public.
2. Online Loan Scams (Easy Money Frauds)
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Advertisements for “instant loans” or “no-repayment loans” via social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp.
- Victims are first asked to pay a “service fee” or “registration charge,” after which no loan is provided.
- In some cases, a small loan is issued, followed by demands for excessive interest, harassment, and intimidation of family members and friends.
3. Phishing Links (Fraudulent Links)
- Deceptive links sent in the name of banks, telecommunications providers, delivery services, or via WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.
- These links are used to obtain passwords, OTPs, and banking details to unlawfully withdraw funds.
4. Online Job Frauds
- Fake online data entry or work-from-home job offers promising unrealistically high salaries.
- Victims are asked to pay registration or processing fees.
5. Romance and Relationship Scams
- Fake profiles on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, or Messenger created to gain trust and extract money.
- Requests for funds under claims of receiving “gift parcels” from abroad.
6. Investment Scams (Crypto / Forex Fraud)
- Fraudulent investment schemes promoted through Telegram channels and Facebook groups promising high returns.
- Requests for registration fees, wallet transfers, referral schemes, and advance payments.
7. Lottery and Prize Scams
- Claims that victims have won large sums of money and must first pay taxes or processing fees to receive the prize.
- Fraudsters impersonating “prize officers” via WhatsApp or phone calls.
8. Online Shopping Frauds
- Fake Facebook pages or groups advertising goods for sale, where products are never delivered after payment.
- Sellers insisting on cash-only or direct bank transfers and operating without verifiable identities.
9. Targeting of Children and Elderly Persons
- Elderly individuals being targeted through foreign-based online assistance or help requests.
- Children being exploited through gaming top-up scams, fake “free skins” links, and related online deceptions.
The Police further encouraged the public to verify official pages, use only trusted online platforms, and immediately report suspected fraud to the Cyber Crime Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department. Emphasising that prevention begins with awareness, the Police called on the public not to fall victim to financial fraud committed via social media and other online platforms.
