The Maldives Police Service has recovered MVR 124,277 in stolen funds following a surge in scam reports filed between March 15 and March 21. The Anti-Scam Centre recorded 51 cases during this period, with total reported losses reaching MVR 338,809.
Online shopping fraud led the week’s cases, accounting for 27 of the 51 incidents. Authorities also recorded 10 impersonation cases, 8 foreign currency exchange scams, and several phishing attempts carried out through malicious links.
Scammers operated primarily through iBay, Facebook Marketplace, online messaging platforms, and direct phone calls.
Scam activity has been a growing concern in the Maldives, prompting the police to establish a dedicated Anti-Scam Centre to monitor, investigate, and coordinate responses to fraud cases. The centre tracks weekly statistics and works to freeze and recover funds before scammers can withdraw them.
Turning to public guidance, police urged citizens to verify the legitimacy of online businesses before completing any transaction. Authorities also advised the public to call and confirm the identity of anyone requesting money via messages, and to use only licensed establishments for foreign currency exchanges. Police further recommended that people avoid sharing personal information online and activate Two-Factor Authentication across all digital applications.
On the importance of swift action, police stressed that prompt reporting significantly raises the chances of recovering lost funds. Victims can reach the National Emergency Call Centre by dialling 911 or 125, or submit to [email protected].