124 fraud cases reported in first half of this year

The number of fraud and cheating cases has come down in the first six months this year but the ROP has warned that people are still falling victim to fraudsters and that caution and awareness are the key.

The figures show a decline in the number of cases recorded in the first six months this year (124) when compared to the same period in 2016 (173). Lt Col Fahd bin Saif al Hosani, assistant director of the Department of Inquiries and Criminal Investigations in Muscat explained how people should watch out for scams.

“Offers of large sums of money or prizes to be claimed within a limited time is the first tip-off to a con. Lack of awareness, inability to identify fraudsters, financial pressure and greed are some of the other reasons. Fraudsters also target people who can easily be convinced about easy money-making ways.”

The more vulnerable age category is those between 20 and 50 years said Lt Col Hosani. However, people of all age groups should learn about new scams and learn how to spot them. “Fraudsters mainly target those between the age of 20 and 50 years. Tricksters promise lucrative jobs and huge cash prizes,” said Lt Col Hosani.

The only way out is awareness. Lt Col Hosani said that one should watch out for alerts and scams reported in the media. “We can reduce cases of fraud by spreading awareness through various media and communication channels. Families and schools too have a significant role in monitoring their near and dear ones. Parents should ensure that children surf the Internet only under supervision.”
 

Lt Col Hosani also advised people against giving out personal and bank details to unknown or anonymous mails. “We advise citizens and residents not to respond to messages, contacts or anonymous links or give out personal data such as credit card number, pin or bank account numbers. Scamsters will not be able to reach their goal if people are cautious,” added Lt Col Hosani.