Expats beware! 103 social media accounts closed, Gulf country issues alert 

DUBAI: Online frauds are becoming active all over the world today. Lakhs have lost money through such frauds. Strict measures have been taken to prevent the spread of online frauds in the UAE. As part of this, the Dubai Police have closed 103 fake social media accounts to protect residents from online frauds. The force informed that there has been a drop in cybercrimes this year compared to last year.

However, Dubai Police have not disclosed the number of cases reported in fraud, cybercrimes, and financial crimes. The figures were reviewed at a meeting chaired by Major General Hareb Mohammed Al Shamsi, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Criminal Affairs.

Dubai Police informed that the drop in the number of cases is due to field operations, precautionary measures, public awareness campaigns and investigations in the right direction. The force also stated that AI is increasingly being used to assist in investigations and identify crimes.

Different fraud methods

The latest fraud in the UAE is through fake advertisements promising jobs, residence, visit visas, and travel packages at low prices. The frauds are carried out using the names of unlicensed companies or impersonating official institutions. Dubai Police had previously issued warnings about such social media accounts. Many were deceived as they thought it was real because it was a fraud using AI.

Report fraud

Do not share personal information or banking details with unreliable people. Al Shamsi urged residents to report such incidents immediately. Online frauds can be reported via the Dubai Police smart application, the force's e-crime platform, or by calling 901.