More than MVR 500,000 was lost to various scam cases reported over the past week, statistics released by the Anti-Scam Centre have shown.

Figures published by the Anti-Scam Centre show that a total of 29 scam cases were reported between 17 May and 23 May 2026.

The reported cases resulted in combined losses of MVR 598,467.44.

However, authorities were able to recover MVR 255,710.99 through efforts carried out by relevant agencies.

The largest number of cases reported during the week were related to e-commerce or online shopping scams.

A total of 15 cases of this type were reported. Authorities advised the public to verify seller information and confirm the existence of shops or warehouses before making purchases, while also encouraging the use of “cash on delivery” (COD) services where possible.

In addition, six cases related to dollar exchange scams were reported during the week.

Authorities advised people purchasing dollars to ensure the seller is licensed. They also stressed the importance of verifying phone numbers when conducting transactions through Viber or WhatsApp.

Two additional cases involving scammers impersonating other individuals to obtain money were also reported during the week.

The Anti-Scam Centre further urged the public not to click suspicious links sent by unknown parties and reminded people never to share one-time passwords (OTP) with anyone.