Dubai: Woman loses Dh10,000 in domestic worker scam

Dubai: Dubai Police have issued a warning about fake or unlicensed domestic worker recruitment offices promoted on social media, following reports of victims losing thousands of dirhams to online scams.

The alert is part of the #BewareOfFraud campaign, aimed at protecting residents from cybercrime. Authorities said fraudsters are exploiting families’ urgent need for domestic help and the ease of digital communication to deceive victims.

Case highlights staged-payment scam

The warning follows a case in which a woman lost Dh10,000 after responding to a social media advertisement offering domestic worker services.

Captain Abdullah Khalfan Al Mansouri, of the Criminal Prevention Department, explained that the woman initially paid a small deposit, then further fees in stages, before all communication abruptly stopped and the advertiser disappeared.

“This staged-payment tactic is one of the most common forms of online fraud,” Captain Al Mansouri said. “Scammers use fake ads and attractive prices to gain trust, then vanish with the full amount.”

Authorities stress use of licensed offices only

Officials stressed the importance of dealing only with authorised and licensed recruitment offices. Residents were advised not to respond to social media ads or transfer money to unknown individuals, and to verify licences, physical addresses, and official communication channels before making any payments.

How to report fraud

Dubai Police urged anyone who falls victim or suspects fraud to report it immediately via the e-Crime platform, by calling 901, or through the “Police Eye” app. Prompt reporting, officials said, is key to tracking offenders, preventing repeat crimes, and protecting the community from evolving scams.