The Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SL CERT) has issued a public advisory, urging people to exercise caution when interacting with online advertisements during the upcoming festive season.
Senior Information Security Engineer Charuka Damunupola stated that several incidents of online scams have already been reported to SLCERT in the first two months of 2026.
He noted that with the Sinhala and Tamil New Year approaching, the risk of fraudulent ads and malicious links increases, often disguised as discounts, cash prizes, or special promotional offers.
Damunupola explained that such links frequently direct users to fake websites designed to steal personal and sensitive information.
He further warned that during Vesak and Poson, scammers may use deceptive schemes, including promotions under names like “Poson Maha Data Dansala,” to collect user data.
SLCERT therefore urged the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when clicking on unsolicited links or online advertisements.
