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

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced temporary road closures from Friday, May 2, due to ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation works.

Drivers are also being warned about weekend traffic delays on Emirates Road towards Sharjah. The affected area is between Dubai-Al Ain Road and the Al Amardhi–Al Awir Road intersection.

The delays are expected every weekend from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, and will continue until August 30, 2025.

Motorists are advised to plan their routes in advance and allow extra travel time to avoid getting stuck in traffic. The RTA also encourages road users to stay updated through its official channels for any changes.

Businesses in the UAE that missed the deadline to register for corporate tax have been given a welcome break. A new decision by the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) waives administrative penalties for those who missed the registration deadline, as long as they meet specific conditions.

To benefit from the waiver, companies must submit their corporate tax returns or annual statements within seven months of their first tax period, in line with the UAE Corporate Tax Law.

Even better, businesses that already paid fines, but now meet the new conditions, will be eligible for refunds, according to the FTA.

This Cabinet-approved move aims to support businesses during the first year of corporate tax implementation, giving them more flexibility to comply with the new rules without facing hefty penalties.

Who’s Eligible?

• Companies or exempt entities that missed the registration deadline
• Must file their tax return or annual statement within 7 months of their first tax period

Why It Matters

The waiver reflects the UAE’s intention to ease the transition into the new corporate tax regime and encourage businesses to regularise their status without fear of penalties.

(Source: Wam)