Banks Warn of Phishing Scams as Lending Sentiment Rises amid Recovery
- CNL Reporter
- August 30, 2025
- Banking and Financial, News
- Phishing Scams
- 0 Comments
Sri Lankan banks have raised fresh red flags over the growing threat of phishing scams targeting online banking users, even as a new Central Bank report shows that lending sentiment in the financial sector remains at its strongest in over a year.
In notices issued this week, several commercial banks cautioned customers about fraudulent emails and text messages containing links to counterfeit websites designed to steal personal and financial data. These fake portals, often mimicking official bank sites, use slight spelling variations or unusual characters to mislead unsuspecting users.
Banks have urged customers to remain vigilant by avoiding suspicious links, directly typing official web addresses into their browsers, and verifying URLs carefully before entering login credentials. They also stressed the importance of reporting any suspicious activity immediately.
While online security remains a pressing concern, the banking industry is experiencing renewed optimism on the lending front. According to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s (CBSL) latest Credit Supply Survey, the sector’s Willingness to Lend Index climbed to 59.6 in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025, the highest level in five quarters, reflecting strong economic and financial stability.
The index, a gauge of banks’ confidence in extending credit, has been supported by lower interest rates, stable liquidity positions, and rising consumer confidence. Loan demand in Q2 expanded on the back of higher wages, resumed vehicle imports, and improved business activity. Private sector borrowing surged by Rs. 221.5 billion in June alone, pushing the outstanding stock above Rs. 8.85 trillion.
