Dubai Police have arrested a group of suspects accused of running a sophisticated scam that lured residents into fraudulent traffic fine “discounts” advertised on social media.
The Anti-Fraud Team of the General Department of Criminal Investigation revealed that the perpetrators offered fake discounts of 30% to 70% on traffic fines, using eye-catching posts to attract victims. Once hooked, these victims were asked to meet the fraudsters in person to hand over a reduced payment in cash.
But behind the scenes, the scheme was anything but legal.
Investigators found that the suspects either harvested credit card information through phishing tactics or bought stolen data from dubious sources. They then used these compromised cards to pay off the full traffic fines in the government system, giving victims the impression that their dues had been genuinely settled.
In exchange, the fraudsters would request the victims pay them half of the fine amount in cash, claiming it was a “discounted” rate—allowing the scammers to pocket money while committing financial crimes.
Dubai Police warned that the offense is twofold: theft of bank data and financial fraud. Authorities also reminded the public that anyone who knowingly participates in such schemes may be held legally liable as an accomplice.
The police urged the public to remain vigilant and to steer clear of any unofficial offers related to traffic fine payments. “We stress the importance of using only the approved channels designated by the relevant authorities,” the statement read.
Suspicious activities can be reported through the “Police Eye” platform or by calling 901.
