Cybercrimes increase by 105% compared to last year; MVR 33M lost

Statistics from the Maldives Police Service shows that reports of cybercrimes committed through internet and technology platforms increased by more than 105 percent during the first six months of this year compared to the same period last year.

According to the data, 512 cybercrime cases were reported to police during the first half of last year, while the number rose significantly to 1,053 cases during the corresponding period this year. Police stated that 884 investigations remain ongoing, while 457 cases, including some reported before this period, have been concluded and closed following the completion of necessary actions.

A breakdown of reported offences shows that online shopping scams increased from 86 cases to 464 cases, representing a 439 percent rise. Police identified this as the most commonly reported and fastest-growing category of cybercrime this year. Social media scams also recorded a significant increase, rising by 626 percent from 15 cases to 109 cases, while foreign currency exchange scams increased by 83 percent, from 56 cases to 103 cases. The statistics further show that 90 percent of reported scams in the Maldives are carried out by individuals operating within the country.

Authorities said the sharp rise in cybercrime is primarily linked to the growing prevalence of online fraud. The figures indicate an increased use of digital platforms by criminals to deceive members of the public, with a notable rise in scams conducted through platforms such as Facebook Marketplace.

Despite the increase in fraud-related offences, certain crimes involving personal data and defamation, which were more common in previous years, have declined. Cases involving blackmail through explicit material decreased by 75 percent, falling from 16 cases to four cases. Similarly, hacking of personal social media accounts declined from 37 cases to 26 cases, while credit and debit card fraud cases decreased slightly from 65 to 63 cases.

The Maldives Police Service has prioritised assisting cybercrime victims and recovering lost assets. During the first six months of this year, technical assistance was provided to members of the public on 182 occasions. Police also facilitated the recovery of 120 compromised accounts across platforms including Viber, WhatsApp, and Facebook.

Highlighting public awareness as the most important measure for prevention, police have conducted awareness sessions for 3,143 individuals so far this year. These sessions included 1,972 students, 743 parents, and 428 office employees. The Maldives Police Service has also established a dedicated Anti-Scam Centre to address the growing threat of online fraud.

As fraudulent methods continue to evolve alongside technological advancements, police have urged the public to remain cautious of emerging threats, particularly content generated through Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Authorities reiterated that individual awareness and vigilance remain the most effective means of protection against cybercrime. The public has been advised to verify the authenticity of individuals and organizations involved in online transactions and avoid sharing personal information or banking details with others.

In cases of suspected fraud or when individuals become victims of cybercrime, police have urged the public to report incidents immediately by contacting the hotline at 125. The Anti-Scam Centre is currently investigating a number of ongoing cases.