January 01, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has witnessed a notable surge in online job fraud cases, with over 150 police complaints filed this year, primarily through the “Telegram” messaging app, Head of Sri Lanka Police’s Computer Crimes Investigation Unit, SSP Dharshika Kumari disclosed.
The concerning increase in scams particularly target the youth, she pointed out.
The modus operandi typically involves scammers initiating communication through popular apps like Telegram, enticing victims with enticing job offers. The scammers exploit the allure of work-from-home opportunities with flexible schedules and claim that no prior experience is necessary, creating an appealing proposition for unsuspecting individuals.
This rise in online job scams poses a serious threat to individuals seeking employment opportunities, emphasising the need for increased awareness and vigilance among the public.
Authorities are working to investigate and address these fraudulent activities, urging citizens to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of job offers prior to proceeding.
The use of platforms like Telegram for fraudulent activities underscores the evolving nature of cybercrime and the importance of adapting preventive measures to safeguard individuals from falling victim to such scams.
