More than 360 incidents related to online financial fraud have been reported during the past month, according to the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT).

Lead Information Security Engineer Charuka Damunupola said the public should exercise greater caution when conducting financial transactions online.

He noted that during the recent festive period, including the Vesak and Poson seasons, cybercriminals increasingly used fake advertisements impersonating well-known brands to deceive consumers and obtain sensitive personal and financial information.

“Throughout the past month, we have received reports of incidents involving the collection of personal information through fraudulent advertisements and the theft of credit card details,” Damunupola said.

He urged the general public to verify that any online payment is made only through an official and legitimate website. He also warned against entering personal or financial information on websites accessed through links received via text messages or other unsolicited communications.

SLCERT advised internet users to remain vigilant and carefully check website authenticity before sharing sensitive information or completing online transactions.