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Don’t get scammed in the UAE: How to spot fake calls, messages and investment traps

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Think you’d never fall for a scam? Think again.
From fake bank alerts to too-good-to-be-true gold offers, online fraudsters are getting smarter and faster at tricking people into giving up their money or personal details.

That’s why Abu Dhabi Police have issued a new warning, reminding residents to stay alert as reports of phone and online scams continue to rise. The latest awareness campaign, “Be Cautious”, aims to help people recognise red flags before it’s too late.

Here’s your quick guide to the most common scams doing the rounds, and how to stay one step ahead.

1. The fake bank call

You get a call claiming to be from your bank, warning that your account has been “blocked” or “suspended”. The caller asks for your card details, PIN, or OTP to fix the problem.

Don’t fall for it: Banks in the UAE will never ask for personal or banking information over the phone. Hang up immediately and contact your bank using official channels.

2. The bogus text or email

You receive a message saying your package is waiting, or your bank account needs verification, complete with a clickable link.

What’s happening: That link could lead to a phishing site designed to steal your login details.
Always type official website addresses directly into your browser; never click random links.

3. The investment that sounds too good to be true

Fraudsters often promise unrealistic returns or “guaranteed profits” through social media ads or WhatsApp groups.

Be cautious: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Only invest through licensed financial institutions or registered platforms in the UAE.

4. The fake chalet or rental deal

You spot a holiday home or weekend chalet online for an unbelievably low price. You’re asked to pay upfront, then the “owner” disappears.

Protect yourself: Always book through verified real estate or hospitality platforms, and never transfer money without confirming the legitimacy of the property or agent.

5. The ‘discount gold’ trap

Scammers may advertise cheap gold sales, asking for partial payments or deposits online. Once you transfer the money, the seller vanishes.

Remember: Always buy gold from licensed jewellers or trusted retailers.

How to protect yourself

Abu Dhabi Police recommend a few golden rules for staying safe online:

  • Never share your banking or ID details over the phone or text.
  • Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages.
  • Verify sellers and investors before making payments.
  • Report suspicious activity to the police immediately.

The ‘Be Cautious’ campaign

Abu Dhabi Police’s Be Cautious awareness drive, now in its sixth edition, is running for three months in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, UAE Cybersecurity Council, Abu Dhabi Media, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB).

The campaign’s message is clear: staying informed is your best defence.

If you encounter suspicious messages, ads, or phone calls, report them via: Aman Service: 8002626 or SMS: 2828.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Crime

Dubai Police alert: Fake insurance scams are exploding, don’t pay until you read this

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A new warning from Dubai Police is putting residents on high alert as fraudulent insurance schemes surge across the emirate, many of them spreading rapidly through social media.

As part of its ongoing BewareofFraud campaign, authorities revealed that unlicensed companies are luring victims with “too-good-to-be-true” deals, often advertising heavily discounted vehicle and health insurance packages designed to trick unsuspecting buyers.

These fake operators typically promise quick, hassle-free policies at prices far below market rates—pushing some residents to make payments without checking whether the company is legitimate. By the time doubts arise, the money is often gone.

Officials stressed that all legitimate insurers in the UAE are tightly regulated and must follow strict procedures to protect customers. Any offer that seems unusually cheap or rushed should raise immediate red flags.

Despite ongoing monitoring and legal action against fraudsters, Dubai Police made it clear: awareness is your strongest defence. Residents are strongly urged to verify licences, double-check documentation, and avoid engaging with suspicious online ads.

Anyone who encounters potential scams is encouraged to report them immediately via the eCrime platform or by calling 901, the dedicated non-emergency helpline.

With scams becoming more sophisticated, one simple rule could save you: if it feels too good to be true, it probably is.

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Dubai Police warn against fake news, urge public to rely only on official sources

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Dubai Police have issued a public advisory warning residents against the spread of misinformation, stressing that relying on unverified sources can threaten community safety and stability.

In a statement shared on social media, authorities highlighted how the speed of modern communication has made it easier for inaccurate information to circulate, sometimes deliberately to create panic and anxiety.

Officials emphasised that individuals play a critical role in maintaining public order, noting that sharing unverified content can have serious consequences. “What we share matters,” the statement said, adding that misinformation can undermine public safety.

Residents have been urged to act responsibly online by verifying information before sharing and relying only on official sources for updates.

The advisory also referenced warnings from UAE Public Prosecution, which confirmed that individuals who repost or circulate rumours—even if they are not the original creators—can face legal action under the country’s cybercrime laws.

Authorities reiterated that responsible digital behaviour is essential to protecting both individual and community well-being.

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Crime

Dubai scam alert: Authority warns of fake QR code scams as cyber fraud attempts rise

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The Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC) has issued a warning over a growing number of scams involving fake QR codes, especially those sent through email.

According to the authority, cybercriminals are exploiting how quickly information spreads by sharing QR codes that appear to offer urgent updates or important services. However, scanning these codes can expose users to serious risks.

DESC explained that such QR codes may install malware on devices or redirect users to fake websites designed to steal personal and financial information.

How to protect your device

Residents are being urged to stay cautious by verifying the source of any email before scanning QR codes, avoiding suspicious messages, and never entering sensitive details on untrusted links.

To boost online safety, DESC also recommends using the RZAM app, which provides real-time alerts about unsafe websites and allows users to scan links before opening them.

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