Sri Lanka Police warn of online scams targeting construction material buyers

Sri Lanka Police have issued an urgent warning regarding a new online fraud scheme targeting buyers of hardware and construction materials. The scam specifically targets contractors, homeowners, and small business owners who source goods like cement and asbestos sheets through digital platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and ikman.

In this scheme, fraudsters advertise construction supplies at prices significantly lower than market rates. After an order is placed, the scammer arranges for a legitimate local hardware store to deliver the goods to the customer. Once the delivery is made, the scammer contacts the buyer and instructs them to transfer the payment to a fraudulent bank account. Victims often only realize they have been deceived when the actual delivery driver or store owner requests payment.

Authorities advise the public to verify the legitimacy of sellers and to avoid making online transfers to unverified accounts. Police recommend contacting the delivery driver or store owner directly to confirm transaction details and suggest opting for cash on delivery whenever possible.