Financial Scams Cost MVR 1.68 Million in the Maldives Last Month

The Maldives Police Service reported that a total of MVR 1.68 million was lost to financial scams in the country last month. Authorities recorded 198 scam cases during this period.

Of the total amount defrauded, MVR 690,000 has been recovered in connection with 37 cases. Most incidents were linked to e-commerce activity, with 94 cases reported. Police advised the public to verify sellers when conducting transactions on online platforms, including Facebook Marketplace and iBay.

Identity theft and social engineering accounted for 49 cases, involving individuals impersonating others to obtain personal information. Authorities urged the public not to share personal data or One-Time Passwords with third parties.

A further 31 cases involved currency exchange fraud. Police warned against conducting exchanges through informal channels, including Telegram and Viber groups.

Investigations into all reported cases are ongoing, as the Maldives Police Service continues efforts to combat financial scams and protect the public.