PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), citing a “sharp rise in fraud-related offences”, is urging the public to exercise extreme caution and avoid clicking on links received via email or text message.

Senior Superintendent of the TTPS Fraud Squad, Michael Jackman, said that there has been a “sharp rise in fraud-related offences targeting individuals’ financial accounts”.

He said that these crimes are commonly carried out by fraudsters who send emails or SMS messages claiming there is an urgent issue with the recipient’s bank account.

“Victims are then directed to click a link to resolve the matter. Once the link is accessed, the perpetrators gain unauthorised access to personal financial information, resulting in the theft or illegal transfer of funds,” the police warn.

They are advising members of the public to ignore and delete such messages.

“Instead, contact your bank or financial institution directly if you receive any communication about your account. Your vigilance and cooperation are critical in the ongoing fight against financial crime,” the TTPS added, without disclosing figures regarding the increase in such related crimes.