26-05-2025
Phishing, crypto and fake job scams up 35% in Q1 2025 in Oman
Muscat – Cyber fraud cases in Oman rose 35% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to Royal Oman Police (ROP).
Brig Jamal Habib al Quraishi, Director General of Inquiries and Criminal Investigations, said the increase highlights growing vulnerabilities amid widespread use of digital platforms. 'These channels offer fraudsters new opportunities to exploit technical loopholes and users' lack of cybersecurity awareness,' he said.
He called for stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the public to promote digital literacy and implement preventive measures.
Among the most common scams are fake websites that mimic legitimate platforms, often appearing among top search engine results. Victims are lured into entering sensitive banking details or paying false fees. Once a One-Time Password (OTP) is submitted, funds are withdrawn and routed through fake accounts or cryptocurrency exchanges, making recovery difficult.
Brig Quraishi warned of job scams originating abroad. Fraudsters offer fake positions such as financial agent or advisor and persuade victims to open bank accounts or transfer funds. 'Many unknowingly become part of international money laundering scams and face legal consequences.' Brig Jamal Habib al Quraishi, Director General of Inquiries and Criminal Investigations
Phone scams remain prevalent, with callers impersonating officials from government bodies, banks or companies. Victims are promised prizes or services and asked for personal information or verification codes. 'No official authority will ever request such da-ta by phone,' Brig Quraishi said.
Other tactics include phishing messages via text or WhatsApp, claiming packages are awaiting delivery. Victims are directed to fraudulent links where small payments expose their financial data.
He also noted a rise in scams during public holidays and online sales seasons, especially on social media platforms like Instagram. Fraudsters use fake profiles to post malicious links or advertise non-existent products.
Cryptocurrency scams continue to spread, with promises of high returns used to encourage fake investments or withdrawals. Brig Quraishi urged the public to be wary of such offers.
He raised concerns over threats targeting children in online video games. 'Scammers may exploit children to extract personal information or images, later used for extortion.' Parents are advised to monitor children's online activities and educate them about risks.
ROP continues to work with regional and international agencies to combat cybercrime. Brig Quraishi cited the recent dismantling of a cross-border ring that lured individuals from Asia to Oman, confiscated their documents and trained them to carry out scams, including romance fraud, fake crypto schemes and impersonation on social media.
He urged the public to report fraud attempts immediately, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never share personal or banking data without proper verification. For online purchases, he recommended using prepaid cards with balance limit, enabling two-factor authentication and using strong, unique passwords.
Victims are advised to file reports at the nearest police station or call the ROP hotline 80077444, and preserve all communication with scammers as evidence.
