Dh10,000 scam attempt: UAE resident nearly duped in tent deal - Watch video

Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Interior has issued a warning to the public about fraudulent advertisements circulating on social media platforms, urging consumers to exercise caution when responding to suspicious offers and to report cybercrimes immediately through official channels.

In a newly released awareness video, the ministry highlighted a real case in which a man was nearly scammed by a fake advertisement for a luxury tent and accessories.

The video, shared across official ministry platforms, follows the story of a man who fell victim to a fraudulent ad promoting a fully equipped outdoor tent—complete with furniture and lighting—for Dh16,000.

After spotting the ad on a Gulf-based social media page, the victim contacted the seller via WhatsApp and agreed to pay a deposit of Dh10,000, initially transferring Dh4,000.

“I received an invoice and everything seemed professional, but I had a lingering doubt,” the victim says in the video. “When I tried to review the seller’s account, I noticed the comment section was disabled—that’s when I realized something was wrong.”

After the seller stopped responding, the victim attempted contact using a different number and was answered immediately. Alarmed, he contacted his bank to freeze the transaction and reported the case to cybercrime authorities.

The Ministry advised him to file a report through the MoI app, attaching all documentation, including the invoice and message exchanges. The case is now under investigation.

The Ministry of Interior urged the public to remain vigilant, verify online sellers before making any payments, and report suspicious activity through the cybercrime reporting feature on the ministry's app.

 “Don’t fall victim to misleading ads and enticing offers,” the ministry warned in the video. “When in doubt, report—and protect yourself from fraud.”