Authorities have reported a rise in financial scams and extortion attempts carried out through fake WhatsApp and Telegram accounts that misuse the photographs and identities of senior police officers.
The public has been urged to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution when receiving messages or calls from individuals claiming to be police officers through social media or messaging platforms.
According to police, fraudsters are creating fake WhatsApp and Telegram profiles using the photographs of senior police officials to falsely present themselves as legitimate law enforcement officers. After establishing contact, the scammers allegedly intimidate victims by accusing them of various offenses or claiming they are under investigation.
The suspects then demand money, claiming that payments are required to avoid legal action or to resolve alleged complaints and investigations. In some cases, victims are pressured into making financial contributions or paying extortion money under threat or fear.
Police emphasized that members of the public should never transfer money or make payments to anyone claiming to be a police officer through telephone calls, WhatsApp messages, or Telegram communications.
Authorities further clarified that the Sri Lanka Police do not conduct financial transactions with the public through social media platforms or personal messaging accounts under any circumstances.
Anyone who encounters such an incident is advised to immediately report the matter to the nearest police station without delay. Victims are also encouraged to personally contact or meet the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the relevant police station and provide details of the suspected scam.
Police warned that even a small lapse in judgment could provide fraudsters with an opportunity to exploit unsuspecting individuals. The public is therefore urged not to panic when confronted with such threats, but instead to act wisely, verify information through official channels, and assist law enforcement in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Authorities continue to investigate these incidents and have called on the public to cooperate by reporting any suspicious communications or attempted scams promptly.
