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Think before you click: UAE warns users to watch out for fake websites

Published

3 weeks ago

November 12, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Not every website is what it seems, and that “official-looking” page you just opened might actually be a clever scam.

That’s the warning from the UAE Cyber Security Council, which has urged internet users to pay close attention to every click, as cybercriminals are getting smarter at mimicking trusted websites.

According to the Council, fraudsters often exploit tiny details, a swapped letter in a URL, a missing padlock icon, or an unusual domain, to lure users into fake websites that steal personal information.

“Smart user choices are the key to staying safe online,” the Council reminded.

To verify whether a website is genuine, residents can use the official StaySafe platform at staysafe.csc.gov.ae.

Look for these red flags

The Council has listed several warning signs to spot fraudulent websites:

Misspelt URLs or extra characters
The absence of HTTPS (the “S” stands for secure)
No padlock icon in the browser bar
Unusual or suspicious domain extensions

If any of these appear, don’t share your details.

The Council also explained the crucial difference between HTTP and HTTPS.
While HTTP transmits data in plain text (and can be intercepted by hackers), HTTPS encrypts information and verifies a website’s authenticity before data is exchanged.

Smart browsing habits that protect your data

The UAE Cyber Security Council has shared some practical steps to browse safely:

Use private browsing mode to reduce tracking.
Install privacy extensions for extra protection.
Clear cookies and cache regularly.
Avoid public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive tasks.
Always check for HTTPS before entering personal data.
Never click on suspicious links or QR codes.

Your smartphone, the Council noted, contains highly sensitive data, from Emirates ID to financial information, making regular browser updates and caution essential.

Whether you’re shopping, banking, or simply browsing, a moment’s caution can save you from a major cyber headache.

So next time, before you click, pause, and check that padlock.

Related Topics:BuzzingAE CyberAwareness cybersecurity DigitalSafety Dubai onlinefraud StaySafeOnline TechNews uae UAECyberSecurityCouncil

Michael Gomes

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.

News

Dubai-India travel: Security procedures triggered for Emirates flight following bomb threat email, flight lands safely

Published

11 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Authorities at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport activated full emergency protocols on Friday after receiving a bomb threat email linked to Emirates flight EK526 travelling from Dubai (DXB) to Hyderabad (HYD).

According to GMR officials, the threat email landed in the airport’s customer support inbox around 7.30am on December 5. Despite the alert, the flight continued under strict monitoring and landed safely at 8.30am.

Once on the ground, the aircraft was immediately moved to an isolated bay. Passengers were safely deboarded, and security te

ams carried out standard bomb threat checks. Investigations are currently underway.

Emirates confirmed the incident in a statement to local media, saying authorities had alerted them to a “potential security threat” to EK526.
“All standard security procedures were implemented by the relevant local authorities with full co-operation from Emirates’ ground teams,” the airline said, adding that “the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain the highest priority.”

Authorities say all threats are being investigated, and extra security measures remain in place at the airport.

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Driving through Abu Dhabi this week? Here are the road closures you need to know about

Published

12 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Abu Dhabi motorists can expect some delays over the next few days, with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announcing a series of partial road closures across key routes in the capital. Drivers are being urged to plan, allow extra travel time, and follow diversions to avoid congestion.

Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street

A major set of phased lane closures will take place near Sheikh Zayed Bridge from Tuesday, December 9 to Monday, December 22, 2025.

Three left lanes will be closed from 12am on December 9 until 10pm on December 15.
Two right lanes will then shut from 10pm on December 15 until 6am on December 22.

Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street

Another temporary closure is scheduled on Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street from 5pm on December 5 until 5am on December 8.

Authorities explained that these restrictions are part of ongoing road enhancement projects designed to improve traffic flow and safety across the city. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes wherever possible during the maintenance period.

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Sharjah Police give deadline to remove National Day stickers, or face fines

Published

12 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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If your car is still sporting National Day decals, it’s time to take them off. Sharjah Police have announced that all vehicle owners must remove their UAE National Day celebration stickers by Saturday, December 6, and those who miss the deadline will face violations.

The reminder follows a crackdown during the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, where authorities impounded 106 vehicles and nine motorbikes for dangerous and irresponsible behaviour on the roads.

According to Sharjah Police, the violations included:

Creating loud noise and disturbing residents
Driving recklessly and endangering others
Operating vehicles without a valid licence

Police officials urged motorists to celebrate responsibly and avoid turning festivities into safety risks.

However, there has been a shift in decorating trends this year. Many residents opted for cleaner, simpler, more elegant designs to showcase their UAE pride ahead of the long weekend, and demand for custom decals surged.

Authorities are now urging residents to ensure all celebratory stickers and decorations are removed by the set deadline to keep roads safe and avoid penalties.