The interior ministry's IT department has issued a fresh warning for the public to be vigilant for scammers pretending to be legitimate online sellers.

As digital technology improves and transforms the way people lead their lives and conduct business, scammers develop more sophisticated online tactics and exploit unsuspecting users with enticing ads for products or services on websites or social media platforms, the department noted.

The department advised the public to look for clear supplier information and possible irregularities before giving away any payment or important personal information, and to report suspected scams so that others may be warned.

Fraudulent payment accounts are often set up by “money mules”, or intermediaries used by scammers, it pointed out.