Connect with us

Crime

Dubai Police warn against public Wi-Fi: Here’s how to stay safe online

Published

on

Spread the love

We’ve all been there, out at a cafe, waiting at the airport, or shopping at a mall, when that “Free Wi-Fi” sign pops up, and we instinctively connect. But Dubai Police are warning residents to think twice before logging on.

Public Wi-Fi networks, while convenient, can be a playground for hackers, especially when used for sensitive tasks like online banking or logging into personal accounts.

The Hidden Dangers Behind Free Wi-Fi

According to Dubai Police, many public networks are unsecured, meaning anyone nearby could intercept your data. Hackers can sneak in through these connections to:

  • Steal passwords and personal information
  • Install malware or spyware on your device
  • Access sensitive files or financial details

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has echoed this warning, revealing that more than 12,000 cyber breaches in 2025 were linked to public Wi-Fi, roughly 35 per cent of all cyberattacks in the country this year.

What You Should Never Do on Public Wi-Fi

  • Log in to your bank account or make online payments
  • Share or change passwords
  • Access sensitive company data

Smart Habits to Stay Protected

  1. Use mobile data or a trusted private network for any sensitive work.
  2. Verify the network’s name; fake hotspots often mimic legitimate ones.
  3. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your connection.
  4. Enable safe browsing features on your browser.
  5. Keep software and antivirus tools updated.

For Businesses Too

Organisations are also urged to tighten cybersecurity. A single data breach could lead to legal liabilities, reputational damage, and financial penalties.

That free Wi-Fi may cost you more than you think. As Dubai Police put it, stay alert, stay secure, and think before you connect.

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

Published

on

Spread the love

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.

Continue Reading

Crime

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

Published

on

Spread the love


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.

Continue Reading

Crime

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

Published

on

Spread the love

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.

Continue Reading

Popular

© Copyright 2025 HEADLINE. All rights reserved

https://headline.ae/