Police Issue Warning Over Telegram Phishing Scam

Maldives Police Service has issued a public alert about a phishing scam targeting Telegram users, warning people to be extra cautious of suspicious links being circulated through the messaging app.

Scam Disguised as Personal Message

According to police, scammers are sending out malicious links that appear to be shared by someone close to the recipient—often a friend or trusted contact. The message claims to contain photos, prompting the user to click the link.

Once the link is opened, it asks the user to enter a one-time password (OTP) that is automatically sent to their phone when their number is entered. If the OTP is shared, the scammer gains full access to the Telegram account.

In many cases, the compromised accounts are then used to send similar phishing links to other contacts, spreading the scam further without the knowledge of the account owner.

Immediate Action Advised for Victims

Police are urging anyone who may have fallen victim to this scam to uninstall the Telegram app immediately. They also recommend turning on two-step verification before reinstalling the app. This extra layer of security can help prevent unauthorized access in the future.

Ongoing Rise in Online Scams

This is just one of several online scams being reported to authorities. The Police Anti-Scam Centre highlighted another scam involving Telegram, where users are asked to complete simple tasks with the promise of payment. These so-called “Telegram task scams” often lead to users being tricked into handing over personal information or bank details.

Last May alone, more than 130 scams were reported, with total losses exceeding MVR 1.4 million. Authorities continue to monitor such activities closely and encourage the public to remain vigilant when using social media and messaging platforms.

Tips to Stay Safe

• Never share OTPs or verification codes with anyone

• Be skeptical of links received via message, even from known contacts

• Turn on two-step verification on messaging apps

• Report any suspicious activity to police immediately

Staying alert and cautious online is more important than ever. While digital platforms bring convenience, they also open new doors for scammers—and it’s up to users to protect themselves.