Police Warns Against Social Media and SMS Scams

According to a statement from the Police Press Office, malicious individuals are using social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, as well as text messages, to create fraudulent scenarios aimed at stealing personal information. These scams include attempts to obtain funds under false pretenses or exploit personal data for fraudulent purposes.

The statement highlighted a recent trend on Instagram, where fraudulent accounts advertise clothing for sale, accept payments for orders, and then fail to deliver the products, leaving buyers defrauded.

The police also noted incidents where text messages are sent with prompts such as "Update your postal information," seeking to obtain personal details, including ID, credit card, or bank account information, with the intent to defraud.

The public is advised to exercise caution while shopping online or via social media and to follow these guidelines to avoid falling victim to scams:

• Ensure the reliability of websites before placing orders.
• Avoid sharing credit card information without verifying the physical existence of the product.
• Refrain from transferring money to unverified bank accounts.
• Never share personal details such as ID, credit card, or bank account information in response to text messages.

The police stressed the importance of vigilance to prevent financial losses and safeguard personal information.