Fake discounts, real danger: Dubai Police issues scam alert
Fraudsters target shoppers with unrealistic discounts, warns Dubai Police
Dubai: Dubai Police is urging residents to be cautious of a new wave of online scams where fraudsters pose as companies offering incredible discounts on products and services—from food and dining offers to luxury resort bookings.
The warning comes from the Anti-Fraud Center at the General Department of Criminal Investigation as part of their ongoing campaign, "Be Aware of Fraud." Police say these criminals are taking advantage of people’s desire to save money by creating fake promotions that look too good to resist.
To stay safe, Dubai Police advises the public to follow a few simple but crucial steps:
Be skeptical of unrealistic offers: If the discount seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid clicking on unknown links or sharing them with others.
Check the source: Look at the account behind the ad—Is it verified? Has it been active for a long time, or was it just created to post this one offer?
Read the reviews: If other users are warning that the site or account is a scam, take it seriously and steer clear.
Watch the language: Poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or awkward wording on websites or posts can be a sign that something isn't right.
Double-check with the real company: Contact the official customer service line, or check the company’s website to confirm if the offer is genuine.
Dubai Police also stressed the importance of not sharing personal or banking details, especially with suspicious websites. Never give out your Emirates ID, credit card information, or the OTP (one-time password) sent by your bank unless you're completely sure you're dealing with a trusted source.
If you come across a suspicious ad or believe you've been targeted, report it immediately through the Dubai Police smart app or by calling 901
Authorities say community awareness and cooperation are vital in fighting this kind of cybercrime, which often crosses international borders and exploits advances in digital technology.
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
