“CERT alerts public on fake messages on social media and WhatsApp.

• 5opn1
• November 1, 2024
• Information technology
• media and WhatsApp
• 0 Comments

The Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) yesterday issued an alert to the public about the surge in fake messages being disseminated via social media and communication platforms, particularly WhatsApp.

These deceptive messages are designed to fraudulently obtain personal and financial information by impersonating credible institutions, including banks, commercial organisations, and international bodies.

Recent observations by Sri Lanka CERT indicate that cybercriminals are using social media platforms, fake websites, SMS, and even postal services to reach potential victims.

In many cases, these messages falsely promise donations, monetary rewards, high-value products, or services and request sensitive information, including One-Time Passwords (OTPs).

By interacting with these fraudulent messages or clicking on embedded links, individuals risk exposing their personal data to criminal misuse, including financial fraud and identity theft