Police have warned the public to remain vigilant against a phishing scam circulating under the name of Booking.com that falsely promises refunds in an attempt to steal banking information.

Police Anti-Scam Centre said scammers have been sending messages claiming to be from Booking.com and directing recipients to phishing websites designed to obtain card details and other sensitive information.

According to the centre, the fraudulent messages offer refunds and urge users to verify their accounts through a link provided by the sender.

A photograph shared by police shows a message sent from the number "1474", claiming to be from Booking.com. The message promises a refund of MVR 9,600 and instructs recipients to verify their account within 24 hours in order to receive the payment.

Anti-Scam Centre said several warning signs indicate the message is fraudulent. These include the use of a shortened web link instead of Booking.com's official website and the creation of artificial urgency by imposing a short deadline to claim the refund.

Police noted that legitimate companies do not request card numbers, expiry dates or other banking details through links sent by text message in order to process refunds.

The centre urged the public not to click on suspicious links or share card information, one-time passwords (OTPs) or other personal details with anyone.

Instead, customers are advised to verify any claims directly through the official Booking.com website or mobile application.

A phishing scam is a form of online fraud in which criminals impersonate trusted organizations to trick people into revealing personal, financial or account information.

Police said similar scams have previously been carried out using the names of government housing schemes and well-known companies, resulting in significant financial losses for some victims.