Police are issuing a public warning regarding multiple reports of impersonation scams involving fraudsters who target individuals via phone calls and messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, to gain unauthorised access to personal accounts and solicit funds from contacts.
Recent reports highlight how the perpetrators reach out using numbers with overseas area codes, posing as representatives from legitimate companies or trusted organisations to lower a victim's guard. Victims’ sensitive personal information is requested and they are asked to participate in online meetings where details can be captured.
Once unauthorised access is gained, such as taking over a victim's WhatsApp account, scammers exploit the contact list, sending urgent messages disguised as the victim to request money. In other variations, deceptive requests are made directly to associates, leading victims to transfer funds to overseas accounts.
To protect yourself and your community, the public is reminded never to share personal information over the phone or online, especially with unverified callers. Always verify unexpected requests for money or sensitive data through an independent, trusted channel, and enable two-step verification on messaging apps like WhatsApp.
The investigation into these reports to the police remains ongoing.
Anyone with information or who believes they have been targeted is encouraged to contact their nearest police station.
Anonymous tips can be provided directly to the RCIPS via our Confidential Tip Line at 949-7777, or via our website.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously via the Cayman Crime Stoppers website or by downloading the Cayman Crime Stoppers app.