Public Warned of Rising Bank and Police Impersonation Scams: Sri Lanka CERT

Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (Sri Lanka CERT) has issued a strong warning to the public following a sharp increase in financial fraud cases involving criminals impersonating banks and senior police officers.

In a media release issued today, CERT revealed that it has received numerous complaints about fraudulent SMS messages and online alerts claiming that credit cards have been suspended due to “suspicious activity.” These messages often use the names of well-known banks and urge recipients to click on links and provide sensitive information such as National Identity Card (NIC) numbers to reactivate their cards.

According to CERT, scammers deliberately create a sense of urgency by warning that the card will be permanently cancelled within 24 hours. Victims who respond are later tricked into revealing One-Time Passwords (OTPs), enabling fraudsters to gain access to bank accounts and steal money.

In another alarming tactic, scammers have been impersonating senior police officers via WhatsApp video calls, sometimes appearing in police uniforms. These fraudsters falsely claim that criminals have used the victim’s NIC details to obtain credit cards and commit illegal activities. Victims are then threatened with arrest and pressured into transferring large sums of money.

Sri Lanka CERT has strongly advised the public never to share NIC numbers, card details, passwords, or OTPs through unsolicited calls or messages. The public is urged to verify any such claims directly with banks or authorities using official contact details and to report suspicious activity immediately.

CERT emphasized that remaining informed, alert, and cautious is essential as scam techniques continue to become more sophisticated.