DUBAI (ALETIHAD)
Dubai Police has cautioned residents about falling prey to online beggars during the holy month of Ramadan.
The General Department of Criminal Investigation, represented by the Anti-Cybercrime Department, warned the public that individuals and groups may seek to exploit the spirit of generosity and compassion during Ramadan, and attempt to fraudulently obtain funds through the Web and social media.
The Police also explained that online begging may constitute a form of cybercrime in the UAE. Article 51 of the UAE's Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumours and Cybercrimes stipulates that anyone found guilty of online begging by using information technology, including through appeals, posts, or any form of digital communication, may face imprisonment for up to three months and a fine of no less than Dh10,000, or any one of these two penalties.