Dear Editor,
Despite a decline in the number of reported online scam cases, Bhutan continues to suffer heavy financial losses to cybercriminals, with more than Nu 26.8 million lost between 2024 and 2025. Authorities have managed to recover Nu 11.73 million, but the remaining funds are unlikely to be retrieved due to the cross-border nature of most scams.
According to Colonel Passang Dorji, a senior official involved in cybercrime investigations, most fraudulent operations originate outside Bhutan, making law enforcement efforts complex and time-consuming. “Tracing and prosecuting perpetrators abroad is one of the biggest challenges,” he said.
While the number of cases has gone down compared to previous years, financial damages remain substantial. Police warn that the apparent decline in reports should not be mistaken for a reduction in risk. “The scams are becoming more sophisticated, targeting younger, tech-savvy users,” officials noted.
The 18–30 age group continues to be the most common victim demographic, often lured by promises of quick profits, job opportunities, or easy money. Popular scams include fake rental advertisements, currency exchange frauds, and lottery or prize-winning schemes.
In 2025, authorities identified new forms of deception, including scams offering false Canadian visa arrangements and fake medical reimbursement schemes. Many victims were duped into paying advance fees or sharing sensitive personal information online.
Law enforcement agencies are urging the public to exercise caution when engaging in online transactions or responding to unsolicited offers. “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” Colonel Dorji warned.
Authorities continue to emphasize public awareness and vigilance as the best defense against digital fraud, encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities promptly and avoid involvement in potentially fraudulent schemes.
Sincerely,
Denkhi
