Abu Dhabi Customs has issued a warning to the public about fraudulent SMS and iMessage messages circulating that impersonate the authority and well-known shipping companies in an attempt to steal personal information.

According to the authority, scammers are sending messages that appear legitimate, often claiming there is a shipment issue, customs fee, or a request to update delivery details. These messages usually include malicious links designed to trick recipients into providing sensitive information such as personal data, banking details, or login credentials.

Abu Dhabi Customs urged the public not to interact with these messages or open any links, stressing that fraudsters sometimes use phone numbers or names that falsely suggest they are associated with official entities to gain people’s trust.

The authority advised customers to avoid sharing personal information with unknown parties and to rely only on official channels to access services, track shipments, or obtain customs-related information.

Abu Dhabi Customs also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high cybersecurity standards and protecting customer data, noting that it works with relevant authorities to monitor and address digital fraud attempts.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious messages impersonating Abu Dhabi Customs through official channels, helping authorities raise community awareness and reduce phishing attempts.

Public parking solutions provider Parkin has urged residents to remain vigilant against online scams and take steps to protect their digital identity.

In a recent advisory, the company warned users not to share personal information through suspicious messages or phone calls. Officials stressed that legitimate organisations will never ask customers to log in to their accounts or disclose confidential details through unsolicited communications.

The warning comes amid a rise in cyber fraud attempts targeting residents across the UAE.

Do not share sensitive information

Parkin advised residents to avoid responding to requests for personal details, passwords, or verification codes, especially when they come from unknown or unverified sources. Fraudsters often pose as representatives of official services in an attempt to gain access to accounts.

Residents are encouraged to verify the authenticity of any message or call before taking action.

Verify sources and report suspicious activity

The company also urged the public to check the official source of communications and report any suspicious activity through legitimate channels.

Authorities in the UAE have repeatedly warned residents about online scams, fake calls and phishing messages, which attempt to trick people into sharing sensitive information.

Cybersecurity experts recommend staying cautious and avoiding links or login requests sent through unfamiliar messages.

Residents who receive suspicious communications should ignore the request and report it to the relevant authorities.

Dubai Police has issued a warning to the public against the use, possession, or trading of fireworks and firecrackers, stressing the dangers they pose to lives, property, and community safety.

In a social media post, the police urged residents to avoid illegal fireworks and reminded them that violators will face legal consequences under UAE law.

Authorities called on the public to report any incidents involving the possession, use, or sale of fireworks by contacting the 901 Call Centre. Officials noted that trading fireworks without a licence can result in up to one year in prison and a fine of up to Dh100,000.

Safety reminder to residents

In another message shared online, Dubai Police urged residents to act responsibly when it comes to fireworks.

“Fireworks may sparkle for seconds, but the consequences can last forever. Choose safety, choose responsibility. Protect yourself and the ones you love with one conscious decision,” the police said.

The warning comes amid ongoing enforcement efforts across the UAE to combat the illegal trade and misuse of fireworks.

Major seizure of illegal fireworks in Sharjah

Recently, Sharjah Police arrested a man who was found in possession of 18,670 illegal fireworks.

Police said the suspect was also using his vehicle to promote the sale of fireworks. The arrest followed careful monitoring by specialised police teams, who tracked the suspect before identifying the storage location.

After completing legal procedures, authorities confirmed the large quantity of fireworks stored illegally.

What UAE law says

Under Article 54 of Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2019 on Weapons, Ammunition, Explosives, Military Material and Hazardous Substances, trading in illegal fireworks is considered a criminal offence in the UAE.

Anyone who imports, exports, manufactures, sells, or transports fireworks without a licence can face imprisonment for at least one year and a minimum fine of Dh100,000, or either penalty.

Authorities continue to urge residents to follow safety regulations and report illegal activities to help maintain public safety across the country.