KUWAIT CITY, Nov 9: Director of the Security Media Department at the Ministry of Interior Colonel Othman Al-Mansouri affirmed that the ministry, in cooperation with other concerned state entities, continues to implement awareness campaigns and programs aimed at protecting the public from cybercrimes, including online fraud and scams. Speaking on the television program, “Good Morning Kuwait,” Al-Mansouri pointed out that while awareness efforts are ongoing, some individuals still fall victim to these crimes due to failure to heed security guidelines and warnings. He explained that cybercrimes are constantly evolving, along with rapid technological advancements and the widespread use of social media and smart devices, hence, the need for a higher level of awareness and caution in using unsafe websites and applications. He pointed out that fraudulent tactics shift over time and vary on online platforms, as scammers often use deceptive advertisements to lure victims and steal their money. He said the most common form of online fraud is through bookings for travel, hotels and holiday chalets, particularly during weekends and holidays. “In such instances, individuals searching for accommodation or tourist destinations may fall prey to fraudulent websites that impersonate well-known tourism entities or establishments, leading them to transfer funds before realizing they have been scammed. Fraudulent schemes are not limited to bookings, as they extend to buying and selling activities on social media platforms. In these cases, scammers offer non-existent goods or products and request payment, leaving the buyer to eventually discover that they have fallen victim to a scam,” he added. He also pointed out that vehicle sale advertisements are another tactic used by scammers who list cars at prices unrealistically lower than the market rate. “This is designed to entice buyers into paying a deposit to reserve the vehicle, only for them to realize later that the advertisement is fake and that they have been defrauded.He emphasized the importance of dealing only with authorized dealerships, companies and entities and verifying any advertisement before making payments, especially in transactions involving parties outside the country. He stressed the importance of never sharing banking details, card numbers or security verification codes with dubious individuals or entities. He also warned against entering such information into unknown links or websites. He asserted that exercising caution when using digital applications and software, as well as monitoring children’s use of smart devices, mitigate the risks of falling victim to scams, account theft, financial loss or the compromise of social media accounts. He urged the public to verify websites and the entities they interact with and to avoid being swayed by unrealistic offers or suspiciously low prices. He underscored the necessity of immediately reporting attempted fraud or cybercrime by contacting the Cybercrime Department hotline number 97283939. He affirmed that the Security Relations and Media General Department continues to fulfill its awarenessraising role through campaigns and media messages aimed at raising security awareness among members of the community and promoting the safe use of technology. He added that the Security Media Department and other relevant authorities continue to receive inquiries and reports and are ready to provide guidance. By Munif Naif Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff
Click Here For The Original Source.
——————————————————–
