Dubai Police launches bilingual platform to combat cybercrime and enhance public safety

Dubai: Dubai Police has launched a new online platform aimed at raising public awareness about cybercrime. Developed by the Cybercrime Department at the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensics, the platform is available in both Arabic and English and offers comprehensive content on cybercrime prevention, including how to identify and avoid common fraud schemes.

The platform is designed to reach all segments of society, children, parents, individuals, business owners, employees, and users of social media and the internet, and can be accessed via https://ecrimehub.gov.ae/ar.

Major General Hareb Al Shamsi, Deputy Commander-in-Chief for Search and Investigation, stated that the platform was launched under the directives of Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance cybersecurity awareness and strengthen public safety.

“Awareness is the first line of defense against all forms of crime, including cybercrime,” Al Shamsi said. “As reliance on digital platforms, social media, and artificial intelligence continues to grow, it is essential to stay ahead by educating the public and preventing fraudsters from taking advantage of society.”

Al Shamsi emphasized that Dubai Police is committed to delivering innovative services that align with the strategic vision of the UAE and Dubai Government’s future plans in the field of smart services.

He noted that the new awareness platform is designed to be easily accessible through a user-friendly website, providing all segments of the community with vital information to protect their personal data and guard against fraud, exploitation, and theft.

Commenting on the platform, Major Abdullah Al Shehi, Director of the Cybercrime Investigation Department, said the initiative is designed to help users recognize cybercrime risks and take timely preventive measures.

He explained that the platform offers essential information on cybersecurity fundamentals, how to report cybercrimes, and how to identify phishing attempts. It also provides guidance on avoiding suspicious links, using strong and unique passwords, backing up data, and adopting basic digital safety practices. Educational videos are also available, offering tips on how to stay safe while navigating apps, websites, and online platforms.

Major Al Shehi added that the platform highlights protection mechanisms, including how to secure smartphones, computers, and other smart devices, safe browsing techniques, account protection methods, and tips to prevent online fraud and ensure the safe use of social media.

He further clarified that the platform raises awareness of various online threats, from phone scams and phishing to deepfakes, fraudulent messages, QR code scams, malware, ransomware, social engineering, and identity theft. Users will learn how to detect and avoid these threats and better understand how to protect their devices and digital identities.

The platform also includes detailed instructions on identifying and avoiding the most common types of fraud. Topics include spotting red flags in job offers, banking scams, fake delivery services, and phishing attacks that use OTPs. Users are also advised on how to verify the authenticity of online shopping or travel deals and how to recognize emerging threats such as AI-generated content and deepfake scams.

A dedicated section titled "Reporting and Recovery" offers users step-by-step instructions on how to report cybercrimes and respond if they fall victim to fraud. It includes recovery tips for hacked devices and targeted advice for residents, tourists, companies, and government employees on rebuilding digital security and minimizing future risk.