Sri Lanka’s Cyber Fraud Investigation Intensifies

The Criminal Investigation Department of Sri Lanka is stepping up its probe into a $2.5 million cyber fraud case linked to the Finance Ministry’s Department of External Resources. Authorities are expanding their investigation into possible cross-border financial crimes.

So far, seven officials from the External Resources Department and the Treasury’s State Debt Management Office have given statements. Several computers were seized for further analysis. Investigators are collaborating with the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team to examine digital evidence.

The breach appears to be a sophisticated phishing and impersonation scheme, not a direct hack. It involved fake domains and emails that redirected debt repayment meant for an Australian creditor. Four senior finance officials have been suspended while investigations continue.

Meanwhile, the Free Lawyers Organisation has raised concerns about delays in reporting the case to court and gaps in the investigation. They have asked the government 22 questions, urging transparency, accountability, and steps to ensure an independent probe.