Public warned of mobile package scam targeting city residents

Colombo, March 27 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) has warned the public about a group of fraudsters operating in several major cities, including Maharagama, who are attempting to extort money by posing as representatives of leading mobile phone companies.

According to the SLCERT, the scammers approach pedestrians while wearing branded T-shirts and inquire about their current mobile service providers, monthly expenses, and usage patterns.

They then promote an attractive “new package,” claiming users can make unlimited calls for a fixed monthly fee of Rs. 2,000 or Rs. 3,000. Victims are also told that a one-time registration fee of Rs. 5,000 is required to activate the offer.

In many cases, victims receive a confirmation SMS upon registration, making the offer appear legitimate. However, the fraud is only discovered later either when unexpected charges appear on their bills or when services fail to function without further payments.

Although individual losses are relatively small, typically around Rs. 5,000, a significant number of people have already fallen victim to the scam.

The SLCERT has urged the public to exercise caution and verify the identity of individuals offering mobile packages or SIM cards on the street, stressing the importance of ensuring they are authorised representatives of the relevant companies.

Officials also warned that such fraudulent activities could intensify during the upcoming festive season and spread to areas beyond Colombo.