Dubai Police have issued a strong warning to jet ski rental companies and users after a major inspection at Fishing Harbour 3 uncovered multiple safety and licensing violations. The Ports Police Station confiscated 32 unfit jet skis and recorded 39 violations during the campaign, which is part of a broader effort to ensure marine safety and regulate rental practices. Offenders face fines of up to Dh5,000.

Fines of up to Dh5,000 can be issued for using unlicensed or unsafe watercraft, operating with expired licences, or obstructing inspectors. Officials stressed that failure to follow marine safety rules can put lives at risk and result in serious penalties.

The Ports Police Station launched the campaign to make sure jet ski businesses are following safety rules and rental procedures properly. Some watercraft were seized for being damaged, involved in past accidents, or unfit for use.

Brigadier Dr Hassan Suhail Al Suwaidi, Director of the Ports Police Station, said the move is part of wider efforts to keep Dubai’s waters safe for residents and tourists.

Common Violations Included:

• Failing to maintain or check jet skis regularly
• Missing or unclear rental contracts
• Lack of digital documentation
• Operating in restricted areas

Fines and Penalties:

• Dh5,000 for using an unlicensed or unsafe watercraft
• Dh1,000 for expired licences
• Dh5,000 for blocking inspectors during checks

Brigadier Al Suwaidi reminded all rental firms to ensure their jet skis are safe, well-maintained, and operated according to the law. He also called for clear contracts and strict safety checks before and after every rental.

Dubai Police have successfully dismantled three criminal gangs involved in phone scams that targeted residents by pretending to be official organisations. The operation, led by the Fraud Control Centre at the General Department of Criminal Investigation, led to the arrest of 13 individuals, all of Asian nationality.

The suspects posed as police officers and bank representatives, tricking victims into sharing sensitive financial details by claiming to update banking information, pay fines, or resolve residency issues. With this information, the gangs stole money from their victims.

The fraudsters used convincing methods to take advantage of people’s trust in government institutions. Authorities are warning the public to stay alert, reminding them that banks and police never ask for personal or banking details through phone calls, texts, or emails.

Residents are urged to report any suspicious messages or calls via the Dubai Police app or the official website at eCrime.ae.

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has issued a warning about a rise in scams involving fake QR codes placed in public areas to steal personal and banking information.

These scams involve fraudsters placing fake QR code stickers on signboards or digital service areas to trick people into scanning them. Once scanned, the codes redirect users to fake websites that may ask for personal details, banking information, or even install malware on devices.

What to Watch Out For

The Council urges the public to stay alert when using QR codes, especially those found in public spaces like transport stops, parks, or notice boards.

Warning signs include:

• Multiple layers of stickers in one location
• Suspicious links after scanning
• Websites with spelling errors or strange requests for data

Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, explained that scammers use QR codes to install “redirect links” that can lead to phishing websites. He said that while QR codes offer convenience, they also pose cybersecurity risks if not used carefully.

How to Avoid QR Code Scams

Dr Al Kuwaiti shared a few important safety tips:

• Only scan codes from trusted locations
• Check the link before opening it – avoid those not starting with “https”
• Use link-checking or QR code scanner apps with security features
• Enable phone protection settings
• Never scan random QR codes from unknown sources

What To Do If You Fall for a Scam

If you believe you’ve been scammed:

• Contact your bank immediately to freeze the cards
• Scan your device for malware
• Change all passwords
• Report the incident to the authorities

Real-Life Scam Examples in the UAE

• Public Transport: A commuter scans a QR code at a bus stop labelled “Check your route.” Instead of the RTA website, it links to a fake login page asking for personal data.
• Public Park: A visitor scans a sticker, thinking it provides park info. They’re redirected to a site that asks for a bank card photo and other personal details.

Authorities such as Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have previously warned about similar scams.

National Cybersecurity Efforts

The Cybersecurity Council is actively working with digital service providers to:

• Secure QR code use
• Enforce stricter security standards
• Run awareness campaigns
• Monitor threats and respond quickly