ICP warns UAE residents: Avoid fake online accounts for fast-tracked services

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has issued a warning to all users—including citizens, residents, and visitors to the UAE—urging them to exercise caution when applying for services and to ensure they are using only official and authorized channels.

The Authority emphasized that its services are provided through simplified and user-friendly procedures via its official website, smart application, and approved service centers and typing offices across the country. It further clarified that it does not grant any privileges or facilitation rights to offices or companies that claim, via social media platforms, to expedite services with fewer procedures. These entities are attempting to mislead users and unlawfully collect money without any legal grounds.

ICP also warned of the growing number of illicit online practices carried out by some accounts on social media and websites, which falsely promote ICP services and claim to offer quicker access to government services without complying with the official standards and requirements—in exchange for excessive fees.

The Authority stressed that such entities rely on deceptive marketing tactics aimed at exploiting customers, damaging the Authority’s reputation, creating security vulnerabilities, and encouraging the growth of a black market that undermines fairness and transparency in service delivery.

ICP confirmed that it is actively monitoring these suspicious practices and is preparing to take the necessary legal action in coordination with the relevant authorities in the country.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security has urged all users of electronic services to deal exclusively with the official electronic portals of the UAE Government—whether for obtaining information or submitting applications related to the Authority’s services.

The Authority stated that the Digital Customer and Government Digital Service Policy, supervised by official entities, is designed to reinforce the UAE Government’s approach of prioritizing digital and proactive services. The policy aims to enhance the customer experience in accessing all digital government services, improve governmental efficiency in service delivery, optimize the use of human, financial, and technological resources, enable comprehensive and integrated interconnectivity between federal government digital systems, and boost trust in the use of digital services across the country.

The Authority added that the UAE Government launched the Digital Customer and Government Digital Service Policy (pdf, 435 KB) as part of the UAE Government Services Strategy. The policy seeks to:

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security noted that the Digital Customer and Government Digital Service Policy is built on six main pillars:

The Authority concluded its statement by highlighting ongoing coordination and joint cooperation with other entities that offer innovative services designed to enhance customer satisfaction in matters related to the Authority—such as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

It pointed out that MOHRE’s Contact Center has introduced a new and integrated communication system consisting of 14 electronic and smart interactive channels, enabling users to access the Ministry’s services directly, promptly, and 24/7.

Additionally, the 80060 Contact Center, equipped with the latest digital systems and smart programs, offers exceptional and innovative services in 20 of the most widely spoken languages in the labor market. It receives inquiries and complaints via the hotline and ensures they are followed up within less than 48 hours.