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.

Dubai Police has launched a wide-ranging initiative aimed at combating fraud and raising public awareness, in collaboration with more than 40 government, semi-government, and private sector organisations.

The campaign, led by the Criminal Investigation Department, focuses on educating residents about common scams, particularly those carried out by phone calls and online platforms to steal money or sensitive banking information.

Officials said the initiative is designed to improve public understanding of how fraud schemes operate and how to report them, targeting employees, families, and the broader community.

Authorities have strongly warned residents not to share personal or financial information with unknown callers, stressing that no legitimate government entity or financial institution would request such details over the phone.

They added that many scams are highly sophisticated and rely on a lack of awareness among victims.

Residents are encouraged to report suspected fraud through official channels, including the Dubai Police app, by calling 901, via the eCrime platform, or through the “Police Eye” service.

Authorities also advised individuals who believe they may have been targeted to immediately contact their bank to block any suspicious transactions before reporting the incident.

Saeed Al Hajri, Director of the General Department of Criminal Investigation, said the initiative reflects Dubai Police’s continued commitment to strengthening public awareness around fraud. He noted that the campaign aligns with the “Year of the Family,” reinforcing the importance of awareness as the first line of defence against financial crimes.

Authorities in the UAE have warned residents against sharing rumours, false information, or misleading content online, stressing that such actions are illegal and can result in serious penalties.

Dubai Police reminded residents that posting or forwarding content that contradicts official announcements or spreads misinformation is strictly prohibited. The authority added that sharing misleading posts that could cause public panic or threaten safety, security, or public health is considered a criminal offence.

Violators may face imprisonment for at least two years and fines starting at Dh200,000, according to authorities.

Residents must verify information

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has also urged residents to be cautious when sharing information online, especially during sensitive situations.

Officials noted that information spreads quickly during times of tension and not all circulating news may be accurate. Residents are advised to verify the source of any information before sharing it and rely only on updates from official government channels.

Sharing photos and videos of accident sites

UAE Attorney General Hamid Saif Al Shamsi warned residents against photographing or sharing images and videos of accident scenes or damage caused by falling debris.

Such content can create unnecessary panic and may give a misleading impression of the country’s safety conditions.

Al Shamsi stressed that public safety institutions across the UAE continue to operate effectively and daily life remains stable nationwide.

What does the UAE law say?

Spreading rumours or unverified information is a criminal offence under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrime.

Under Article 52 of the law, anyone who publishes or republishes false or misleading information that contradicts official announcements or harms public security can face:

• Up to two years in prison
• Fines of up to Dh200,000

Authorities reminded residents that even reposting or forwarding false information can lead to legal consequences, and urged the public to act responsibly when using social media.