210406 Scam
The scam advert featuring a spokesperson from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Commerce. Image Credit: Sabq

Abu Dhabi: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Commerce has warned against an online financial scam advert using a picture of its spokesperson to promote fraudulent investment products, local media reported.

The ministry stressed the need to take caution and beware of falling into investment risks, signing up to, or dealing with suspicious websites, whose activities may involve illegal activities, promoting investment opportunities and promises of financial gain and quick wealth.

Social media and other online platforms have made it easier than ever before to reach highly targeted audiences with the information fraudsters want them to see, the ministry said in a statement.

“Scammers attempt to get fake ads and information under your nose. Not only could you be misled into buying something dodgy or unsafe, but it could also result in you falling victim to a financial scam,” the statement added.

“Work was being done with authorities to trace the source of this type of hoax advertisements, and to take the necessary legal action against them,” the statement said.