Scammers are taking to social media to trick unsuspecting passengers with enticing offers of “lost luggage” at rock-bottom prices, but the real Dubai International Airport (DXB) is warning travelers to stay vigilant.
Several fake accounts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram have been promoting these fraudulent deals, claiming to sell unclaimed lost luggage from the airport’s warehouse. The offers include items priced as low as Dh8, with promises of attractive deals and “nationwide delivery” along with a generous “60 days to return” policy.
The legitimate DXB account recently issued an advisory to passengers, cautioning them about these “fake profiles” and emphasizing that these scams have nothing to do with the real airport. In a lighthearted message, they said, “We’re here for takeoffs, not rip-offs. So, if you see any suspicious bargains, stay sharp and don’t click on them.”
One of the fake Facebook accounts, still active as of January 16, has been garnering attention with positive reviews and photos from supposed “clients.” However, a closer look reveals a cyber threat linked to their website, potentially stealing sensitive information such as passwords, messages, or credit card details.
This isn’t an isolated incident, as similar scams have surfaced in the past. In January, a Facebook page impersonating ‘Kuala Lumpur International Airport’ offered “lost suitcases with electronics” for sale. The page was listed under the ‘Tutor/Teacher’ category and originated from Casablanca, Morocco.
Authorities are urging travelers to be cautious and avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. Malaysia Airports, for example, has also warned of similar scams and encourages vigilance among travelers to protect themselves from online fraud.
In an era where online scams are increasingly prevalent, passengers are advised to verify the legitimacy of any offers or deals they come across on social media, especially when it involves valuable personal information and financial transactions.