THE Fraud Squad reported Friday that since the start of the year the police have arrested a number of people involved in phishing and smishing activities targeting local bank account holders.

According to the constabulary’s Corporate Communications Unit (CCU), from January 1 to January 25 investigators arrested and charged six individuals for various offences related to fraudulent activities, cumulatively involving funds amounting to just under $6 million.

These offences include unauthorised access to computer data, simple larceny, conspiracy to defraud, unlawfully making data/device available for the commission of an offence, and breaches of the Proceeds of Crime Act.

The individuals arrested and charged are:

• Odean Watson – $900,000

• Dahjean Daley – $92,000

• Shadessa Thomas – $2,000,000

• Camoya Hunter – $2,300,000

• Nicholas Neisbeth (charged jointly with Hunter)

• Jewel Williams – $689,000.00

The total sum defrauded is $5,981,000

“These arrests underscore our commitment to protecting our citizens from these evolving cyber threats. We are determined to stay ahead of these illicit activities and ensure the safety and security of all bank account holders,” said the CCU.

In recent years Jamaica has witnessed a significant trend in electronic fraud (e-fraud) incidents. In 2022 a total of 320 cases of e-fraud were reported, with the financial impact amounting to $120,302,038, and US$19,785,190. The following year, 2023, saw a slight increase in the number of reports, totalling 355. However, there was a notable change in the value of these frauds, which amounted to $169,033,677 and US$219,919. This data, said the police, has highlighted a concerning rise in e-fraud activities, reflecting an evolving challenge in cybersecurity and financial protection within the country.

“We also wish to caution all bank account holders to remain vigilant. If you are approached to use your account to facilitate transactions by unfamiliar parties, please be aware that this could be part of a fraudulent scheme. Participating in such activities, knowingly or unknowingly, can lead to serious legal consequences, including arrest, charges, and court proceedings,” said the CCU.