MFSA Launches Scamalert.mt to Strengthen Protection Against Financial Scams

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), the Malta Police Force and the Office of the Arbiter for Financial Services have launched Scamalert.mt, a new national platform designed to help individuals and businesses recognise, avoid and report financial scams.

The platform brings together each institution's area of expertise in one place: the MFSA provides information on financial and investment-related scams, including warnings on unauthorised entities, the Police Force offers guidance on suspected criminal fraud, and the Office of the Arbiter contributes a consumer-focused perspective on financial services disputes. Together, it covers a wide range of scam types, from investment fraud and crypto scams to clone firms, impersonation, romance scams, smishing and spoofing, with practical guidance on spotting warning signs and where to turn if something looks wrong.

Rather than acting as a reporting mechanism itself, Scamalert.mt is designed as a central reference point, directing users to the right authority whenever a suspected scam needs to be reported and equipping the public with the tools to spot red flags before financial harm occurs. The three institutions are encouraging individuals and businesses to check the site regularly, as content is expected to be updated to reflect emerging scam tactics.

The initiative reflects a coordinated public sector response to a growing challenge, as financial services become more digital and scam methods more sophisticated. It was launched with the participation of Permanent Secretaries Paul Zahra and Joyce Dimech, alongside representatives of the three partner institutions.

MFSA CEO Kenneth Farrugia said protecting consumers "requires more than regulatory oversight," pointing to the need for cooperation between regulators, law enforcement and consumer protection bodies alongside an informed public. Deputy Police Commissioner Sandro Gatt echoed that view, noting that prevention and early reporting are key to limiting the financial and personal impact of scams, while Office of the Arbiter Chairman Geoffrey Bezzina highlighted the value of giving consumers clear, accessible information in one central place.