More Than MVR 1 Million Lost to Scams in January

More than one million rufiyaa was lost to scams last month, according to new figures released by the Maldives Police Service. Officers recovered MVR 630,319.15 from reported cases.

Police said 189 incidents involving financial loss were recorded in January. A total of 52 victims recovered funds, while 11 suspects were taken into custody.

E‑commerce scams accounted for the largest share of cases, with 109 reports filed. Another 36 people were targeted in dollar‑marking schemes. Seventeen victims were deceived by scammers posing as representatives of known individuals.

The platforms used in the frauds included phone calls, eBay listings, online messaging apps, phishing links and the Facebook Marketplace.

Police warned that scammers continue to exploit public sympathy, including by fabricating appeals for medical assistance. The Anti‑Scam Centre urged the public in late January to remain alert to schemes that misuse the names of patients or charitable causes.

Authorities have advised residents to verify information, avoid sharing personal details and exercise caution when making online payments.