There is a surge in fraudulent online business transactions – EOCO

“This recurrent crime comes at the back of fraudsters cashing in on the convenience of transacting business online and depriving members of the public of their hard-earned monies.

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Fraudulent online business transactions are on the rise, a statement from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has said. 

“This recurrent crime comes at the back of fraudsters cashing in on the convenience of transacting business online and depriving members of the public of their hard-earned monies.

Criminals have targeted the online purchase/delivery services and are defrauding unsuspecting members of the public,” the statement added.

According to EOCO, the fraudsters operate fake online accounts, advertising very attractive items at competitive prices with claims of offering door-to-door delivery services. 

“In reality, no such shops exist therefore the operators do not encourage shop visits or picking up of items in person. Full payment before delivery is their preferred business module.

They stop interacting with their victims the very moment full payment is made or some substantial amount of money has been paid by the victims.”

The statement further urged the public to do “due diligence” before transacting business with an online shop.