Chronicle Editor
Peter Matika, [email protected]
IN light of the recent increase in cyber-crime activities, police have expressed unease over the growing number of individuals falling prey to online Ponzi schemes operating “under the radar.”
The concern was raised, amid reports that Deputy Defence Minister Levi Mayihlome fell victim to an online scam, losing US$850.
According to police sources the deputy minister was lured into the scam through a deceptive advertisement on Facebook, which promised lucrative returns from online trading.
The victim, mistakenly assuming familiarity with the perpetrator, made an initial investment of US$200, enticed by the promise of multiplying his money 25 times over.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the fraudulent transaction was facilitated through Innbucks, with the funds being deposited into an account registered under an alias.
Upon being informed that his investment had purportedly yielded a profit of US$5 300, the official was instructed to deposit an additional US$650 in order to access the funds.
He is reported to have complied and deposited the money in two batches to make it US$650.
Afterwards he is said to have been told to deposit a further US$350.
It was at this juncture that the deputy minister began to harbour suspicions regarding the legitimacy of the scheme, realizing that he had fallen victim to a scam orchestrated by malicious actors seeking to exploit unsuspecting individuals.
In a statement issued yesterday, police issued a cautionary statement, urging vigilance and discretion when encountering online investment opportunities and job offers.
Stressing the importance of exercising scepticism and due diligence, the police highlighted the prevalence of criminals utilising social media platforms to deceive and defraud individuals.
“Police are currently investigating reports of criminals who are using social media sites to dupe unsuspecting members of the public,” read part of the statement.
As cyber-crime continues to pose a significant threat to individuals’ financial security and personal information, police said they are intensifying efforts to combat illicit online activities and safeguard the public from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
More to follow…
Online Reporter