July 13, Colombo (LNW): The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) is set to roll out a comprehensive, week-long public awareness initiative from tomorrow (July 14), aimed at tackling the growing threat of pyramid investment scams across the country.
Branded as the ‘Anti-Pyramid National Awareness Week’, the campaign will run until July 18 and is spearheaded by the Financial Consumer Relations Department of the CBSL.
Under the slogan “Pyramid is a trap – don’t get into the wrong track”, the campaign seeks to inform and educate the public on the dangers of illicit financial schemes disguised as legitimate investment opportunities.
These deceptive operations, which often promise quick returns, have ensnared thousands of unsuspecting individuals in recent years, leading to financial hardship and loss of trust in the broader financial system.
The awareness drive is expected to reach a broad demographic, including students, educators, public sector workers, police personnel, military and civil defence officers, and everyday citizens.
In an ambitious outreach effort, awareness sessions will be conducted through more than 6,000 schools and over 14,000 Grama Niladhari divisions, ensuring deep penetration into both urban and rural communities.
Participants will be educated on the legal framework that prohibits such schemes, the tell-tale signs of fraudulent investment models, and the harsh consequences faced by those who fall victim. Real-life stories from individuals affected by these scams will be shared to highlight the human and financial toll.
To maximise engagement, the campaign will be supported by a wide-ranging media strategy that spans traditional and digital platforms. This includes advertisements in print media, targeted social media messaging, informative posters, live-streamed discussions, as well as dedicated radio and television programmes. Public seminars and community meetings will also form a core part of the outreach.
The CBSL has called on citizens to stay informed and take an active role in the campaign, emphasising that public awareness is the most effective tool in curbing financial fraud.
