Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Abu Dhabi Police have declared public collaboration as the cornerstone of cybercrime defence. The force is actively engaging in a battle against the multifaceted nature of cyber threats, underscoring a commitment to thwarting these crimes, regardless of their forms, types, and methods of perpetration.
The campaign focuses on raising the awareness of Internet users and smart device owners, highlighting the importance of safeguarding personal data. The initiative aims to protect the public against the perils of phone scams, blackmail, electronic fraud, and a spectrum of cybercrimes.
Brigadier General Musallam Mohammed Al Ameri, the Acting Director of the Abu Dhabi Police’s Criminal Security Sector, called for the public to heighten vigilance. He cautioned against the dangers of online purchases, particularly on social media, where fraudulent transactions involving counterfeit financial receipts are rampant. He affirmed that the Abu Dhabi Police are dedicated to fostering public awareness to combat these deceptive schemes and to bolster preventive measures.
Brigadier General Al Ameri explained the modus operandi of such schemes, beginning with the posting of deceptive advertisements for goods on social media or specialised apps. The fraudsters, upon agreement, dispatch falsified bank receipts, luring the seller into a false sense of security about the transaction’s legitimacy.
The Brigadier General advised sellers to take no action until payment confirmation is secured, thereby circumventing the traps laid by these sophisticated con artists. He underscored the importance of consulting with the relevant authorities in the event of falling prey to such scams, and going to the nearest police station to file a report.
The Abu Dhabi Police’s Aman Service, operational 24/7, provides a confidential way for the community to report suspicious activities, thereby preempting potential crimes. The service is accessible via multiple channels, including the toll-free number 8002626 (800AMAN), text messaging (2828), email (aman@adpolice.gov.ae), and the police’s smart application.
Unrealistic Salaries, Fake Recruitment
The Abu Dhabi Police have issued a stern warning to job seekers about the increasing prevalence of online job scams. Authorities have identified a surge in fraudulent activities where con artists create fictitious company pages on the Internet, masquerading as legitimate recruitment agencies or using social media platforms to lure unsuspecting applicants, enticing job seekers with the false promise of high-paying jobs, requiring payment of various fees upfront. Victims later find themselves involved in scams, having applied for non-existent jobs. The police urge the public to exercise vigilance and steer clear of online recruitment sites that demand fees or personal information under the pretence of employment opportunities.
The scam artists employ sophisticated criminal tactics, extending their reach beyond national borders to target job seekers worldwide. They initiate contact through phone or email, pretending to be affiliated with reputable companies, and coax personal and financial details from individuals by assuring them of job acceptance contingent on fee payment.
The Abu Dhabi Police cautioned that legitimate recruitment firms do not require payment or sensitive personal data from candidates. Job seekers are advised to verify the legitimacy of recruitment agencies and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities immediately. The police are committed to combating these fraudulent schemes and protecting the community from such exploitative practices.
Fake Electronic Ads
The Abu Dhabi Police have issued a stern warning against engaging with fraudulent electronic advertisements. The police have highlighted the increasing prevalence of deceptive tactics employed by scammers, including phishing schemes that lure victims through misleading methods, fraudulent calls, and text messages linking to counterfeit websites. These messages often impersonate government institutions and offer non-existent services and deals.
The public is advised to exercise caution and avoid entering suspicious websites or clicking on links that claim to be from reputable stores offering extraordinary deals. The police have also raised concerns about fake ads on the Internet, social media, and various smartphone applications that advertise pet sales or adoptions, requiring payment for shipping and insurance from abroad.
The authorities have uncovered that these scammers often instruct victims to transfer money to bank accounts set up for fraudulent purposes or to use licensed local and international exchange companies for money transfers.
The Abu Dhabi Police urge the public to protect their personal information fiercely. Confidential details such as account information, card numbers, online banking passwords, ATM PINs, security codes (CCV), and other passwords should never be shared. The police reiterated that legitimate bank employees will never request such sensitive information.
