• Relate to social media misuse, cybersecurity, online/digital frauds, cyber/sexual harassment, fake/hacked accounts, fin. scams, hateful/abusive content, false info

The Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) has received more than 12,650 complaints related to social media misuse and cybersecurity incidents last year (in 2025). This represents a significant rise in online frauds, digital fraud, and cyber harassment when compared to prior years. According to the Lead Information Security Engineer of CERT, Charuka Damunupola, a significant proportion of the complaints involve fake accounts, hacked accounts and financial scams carried out through social media platforms. Hateful or abusive content and adults’ sexual harassment and related content also feature high among the complaints. He also said that there has been a noticeable increase in general scams and the dissemination of false information.

Cybercriminals continue to employ increasingly sophisticated and fraudulent methods to take advantage of the growing reliance on digital platforms for communication, trade, and financial activities. Particularly vulnerable groups, such as young people who might not be sufficiently informed of online safety procedures, elderly users, and first-time internet users, are frequently among the victims.

Damunupola urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid sharing personal or financial information online, verify suspicious messages and links, and enable strong security measures such as two-factor authentication and secure passwords. 

For assistance or to report a cyber incident, the public may contact CERT through 101 or report@cert.gov.lk.