Dubai Police warned residents about a growing wave of online fraud involving fake websites, social media advertisements and deceptive digital communications. Scammers are using convincing online platforms to collect money, banking details and personal information.
The warning comes as fraudsters increasingly target people through services appearing legitimate. Online shoppers, residents seeking digital services and people responding to advertisements can all be exposed to such schemes.
Director of the Anti-Fraud Center at Dubai Police, Hamad Obaid Al Suwaidi, said, “Fraudsters use advertisements on social media and copy websites exactly like the original websites, with only a slight difference.”
Fraudsters can recreate legitimate websites with a high degree of similarity. A minor change in the web address may be the only visible difference. That change could involve a single letter or a different domain name. Users rushing to complete a purchase may overlook such details.
Police have also warned residents against trusting links simply because they appear in advertisements or arrive through messages. Users should check where a link comes from before opening it.
Verifying the identity of the person or organization behind a website is also important. Extra caution is needed when a link directs users to a payment page or requests banking and personal information.
Technology is giving fraudsters new ways to make scams appear authentic. Artificial intelligence and fake calls can make fraudulent communications sound and look more convincing. This creates an added challenge for people who have limited experience with digital services. A message, call or advertisement may appear genuine even when it has been designed to deceive.
“Technology has contributed significantly, especially for people who do not have enough knowledge or experience, making it easier for them to fall into the trap of fraud,” Al Suwaidi said.
The risk extends beyond financial loss. Sharing personal or banking information with a fake service can expose victims to further fraud. Dubai Police have urged victims to act quickly after discovering fraud. Delaying a complaint can reduce the opportunity for authorities to respond promptly.
Victims should secure or close the affected account and report the incident through the e-Crime platform, Dubai Police SPS service or at a police station.
“The victim should close their account and submit a complaint through e-Crime, SPS or at a police station as soon as possible so that the police can take action,” said Al Suwaidi.
Residents should report suspected fraudulent websites and fake social media accounts even when they have not lost money. Such reports can help authorities identify and act against suspicious activity.
Dubai Police are also working to tackle online fraud by blocking fraudulent websites and fake social media accounts. Awareness campaigns and public warnings are a part of the effort. For residents, the basic safeguard is verification before action. A professional-looking website does not prove that it is genuine.
Users should inspect web addresses, verify beneficiary details and confirm the identity of the organization before making payments. They should also avoid sharing banking or personal information through unverified links.
As fraudsters adopt more sophisticated digital tools, recognising a scam may become harder. Taking a few moments to verify a website, account or caller can help residents avoid key financial and personal risks.
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