The latest figures from the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) suggest that online financial fraud is becoming an increasingly serious concern, with more than 360 incidents reported during the past month alone.
According to SLCERT Lead Information Security Engineer Charuka Damunupola, many of the reported cases involved cybercriminals using fake online advertisements and fraudulent websites to collect personal information and steal financial details from unsuspecting users.
The number is significant because it highlights how cyber fraud is evolving from an occasional threat into a more persistent risk for internet users. As more people rely on online platforms for shopping, banking, and payments, fraudsters are finding new ways to exploit consumer trust and digital habits.
Damunupola noted that cybercriminal activity increased during the recent Vesak and Poson festive seasons, with scammers impersonating well-known brands through fake advertisements designed to attract consumers searching for promotions and special offers.
According to SLCERT, some victims were tricked into providing personal information, while others lost credit card details after visiting fraudulent websites. These scams often appear legitimate, making them difficult for users to identify at first glance.
The trend reflects a broader challenge facing digital economies worldwide. As online transactions become more common, cybercriminals are increasingly targeting individuals rather than institutions, often using social engineering techniques to persuade victims to voluntarily disclose sensitive information.
Damunupola urged the public to verify that online payments are made only through official websites and warned against entering personal or financial information through links received via text messages, social media messages, or unsolicited communications.
The warning comes at a time when regulators and cybersecurity authorities are placing greater emphasis on public awareness as a key defence against cybercrime. While technical security measures continue to improve, many fraud cases still succeed because users unknowingly provide information directly to scammers.
The latest figures indicate that cyber fraud is no longer a problem affecting only a small group of internet users. With hundreds of incidents reported in a single month, the challenge increasingly involves ensuring that digital adoption is accompanied by greater awareness of online security risks.
For consumers, the message from SLCERT is clear: verifying websites, questioning unexpected offers, and exercising caution before sharing personal or financial information have become essential habits in an increasingly digital environment.
Online Scam Public Notice Public Security
Last modified: June 9, 2026
