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

Abu Dhabi Police have issued a fresh warning to the public following a spike in online fraud cases involving fake auctions, counterfeit products, and bogus job offers.

One of the scams involves fraudsters placing online ads for luxury watches. Victims are tricked into transferring money, only to discover that the watches are fake upon delivery.

Authorities also warned of fraudulent trading platforms. These websites often appear legitimate, with professional ads and fake profiles that simulate profits to convince victims to deposit more funds. However, when victims attempt to withdraw their money, they are blocked.

The police also cautioned residents against paying deposits for fake vehicle plate numbers, properties, or insurance policies promoted on scam websites. Some fake platforms mimic popular restaurant or retail brands to steal money through fake offers and then drain users’ bank cards.

Job seekers were specifically warned about fake employment schemes, where scammers pretend to be recruitment agents or company representatives, sometimes even using the names of real events. Victims are asked to pay fees for jobs that don’t exist.

Abu Dhabi Police urged residents to:

• Never share confidential banking information, including card numbers, passwords, PINs, or verification codes.
• Be cautious of suspicious calls or messages requesting to update banking details.
• Report any suspicious activity by calling the Aman service on 8002626, sending a text to 2828, or visiting the nearest police station.

The warning comes as part of ongoing efforts to fight cybercrime and protect community members from financial loss.

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has hit a bank operating in the country with a financial penalty. This comes under the rules set out in the Federal Decree Law No. (20) of 2018 on Anti-money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations.

The fine was imposed after a review by the CBUAE found that the bank wasn’t following the required Anti-money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism policies and procedures.

The CBUAE takes its role in overseeing the financial sector seriously, ensuring that all banks and their staff stick to UAE laws and regulations. This is to maintain the integrity and transparency of the UAE’s banking system.

(Source: Wam)