Abu Dhabi Police have issued a warning about a recent spike in scams, particularly involving fake vehicle number plates. Fraudsters are reportedly using social media to create fake auction accounts, offering distinctive car numbers at prices lower than those on official auction sites, Gulf News reported.
In an advisory, the police highlighted that scammers lure victims into paying hefty deposits for promised vehicle numbers or properties through links to fake websites, often mimicking popular restaurants and shops. Additionally, job seekers have been targeted with “fake employment” scams, where fraudsters create bogus company pages online and charge fees for non-existent jobs.
The public is urged not to share any confidential information, such as card details, online banking passwords, or ATM PINs. In case of fraud, individuals should report to the nearest police station or contact the Aman service at 8002626, send a text to 2828, or email aman@adpolice.gov.ae.
The UAE Government Cyber Security Council has also warned against phishing scams involving exaggerated offers and unbelievable prices. They advised residents to scrutinize brand elements, logos, and images to spot scams. Tips to stay guarded include verifying caller identities and avoiding clicking on suspicious links. The Council emphasized that banks never request credit or personal information via email or text.
Penalties for forging electronic documents are severe, with fines ranging from Dh150,000 to Dh750,000 and possible imprisonment under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021. The same penalties apply to anyone using a forged electronic document knowingly.