The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) issued a public alert warning citizens about online fraud to save public from fraudsters as New Year approaches.
The Cyber Crime Agency calls citizens to remain vigilant as New Year approaches and scammers intensify deceptive tactics targeting unsuspecting internet and smartphone users.
According to the advisory, online fraudsters often become more active during festive seasons, using excitement and celebratory moods to trick people into clicking suspicious links or sharing sensitive personal information.
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The agency stated that New Year celebrations usually bring an increase in promotional messages, greeting links, and digital offers, many of which are designed to appear legitimate but are actually fraudulent.
Officials warned that fake congratulatory messages promising cash prizes, free gifts, or exclusive offers are circulating widely across social media platforms, messaging apps, and email services.
These deceptive messages often include links that redirect users to malicious websites, where personal data, banking details, or login credentials may be stolen without the victim’s immediate knowledge.
The NCCIA stressed that scammers exploit curiosity and urgency, encouraging users to act quickly by clicking links before verifying their authenticity or source.
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According to investigators, such scams can lead to financial losses, identity theft, and unauthorised access to personal or professional online accounts.
The alert advises citizens to avoid opening unknown links, especially those claiming surprise rewards or requiring immediate action to claim supposed New Year gifts.
Users are encouraged to verify the sender’s identity, avoid sharing personal information, and refrain from downloading attachments from unverified sources.
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The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency also warned against sharing one-time passwords, verification codes, or banking information with anyone claiming to represent official organisations.
The NCCIA urged victims of online fraud to report incidents immediately so authorities can take swift action and prevent further exploitation.
