The Ministry of Women and Child Affairs has issued a warning to the public about fraudulent messages circulating on WhatsApp, Facebook, and other social media platforms, falsely claiming to provide post-disaster relief for those affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
According to the ministry, these messages often request personal information under the pretense of offering aid. Officials stressed that all legitimate data collection for disaster relief is carried out through official government channels — specifically, the District and Divisional Secretariats, with assistance from field officers, including those from the ministry and Grama Niladhari officers.
The public is urged not to share personal information with unauthorized individuals or respond to unverified messages.
The ministry also stated that legal action will be taken against those involved in scams or other deceptive practices aimed at exploiting affected communities. (Newswire)