The Bank of Mauritius has issued a scam alert about fraudulent emails and messages circulating on social media that are allegedly sent by or on behalf of banks, financial institutions, public and private entities, or individuals whose email accounts or mobile phones may have been hacked. The messages are designed to defraud recipients by urging them to transfer funds or make other payments for purported prizes, rewards, administrative processes or financial support. The central bank cautioned the public not to respond to any unsolicited email, message or phone call without first confirming it with the relevant institution, entity or person. Suspected scams should be reported immediately to the Police and the relevant authorities. The Bank also pointed the public to information on different types of financial fraud on its website and said potential scams or financial fraud can also be reported to it.