Police Report Sharp Rise in Cybercrime, Business Scams in Maldives

The Maldives Police Service has reported a sharp increase in cybercrime during the first half of this year, with business-related scams among the fastest-growing categories of offences.

Police statistics show that cybercrime reports have risen by more than 105% compared with the same period last year.

A total of 512 cybercrime cases were recorded during the first six months of last year. That figure climbed to 1,053 during the corresponding period this year. Of those cases, 884 remain under investigation, while investigations have been completed and cases filed in 457 instances.

According to police, the surge has been driven largely by a significant rise in online fraud, with criminals increasingly using digital platforms and technology to deceive members of the public and obtain money.

Online shopping scams were the most commonly reported cybercrime, increasing dramatically from 86 cases in the first half of last year to 464 cases this year. Fraud committed through social media platforms also rose substantially, with reported cases increasing from 15 to 109.

Police also recorded an 83% increase in scams involving foreign currency exchange. A total of 103 such cases were reported during the first six months of this year, compared with 56 cases during the same period last year.

Authorities said supporting victims of cybercrime and recovering stolen funds remain key priorities. During the first half of the year, police provided technical assistance in 182 cases.

Police also reported recovering access to 120 compromised accounts, including Viber, WhatsApp, and Facebook accounts that had been hacked.

As part of ongoing prevention efforts, police have continued public awareness campaigns, reaching more than 3,000 people, including office employees, parents, and students.

Police said cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting advances in technology and adopting new methods to carry out fraudulent activities. Authorities added that efforts are continuing to strengthen prevention measures and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

Police urged the public to report suspected fraud or attempted financial scams immediately, stressing that prompt reporting plays a vital role in identifying offenders and improving the chances of recovering lost funds.