Dubai Police have taken decisive action against fraudulent activities perpetrated via cell phones, particularly those targeting bank clientele.
The General Department of Criminal Investigation reports that they have apprehended 494 individuals involved in 406 instances of phone fraud within the last year.
The predominant modus operandi employed by these fraudsters typically involves contacting bank customers via calls, emails, or SMS under the guise of requiring banking information updates. Furthermore, perpetrators have resorted to utilizing social media platforms to reach out to victims and obtain sensitive bank account details. The law enforcement authorities have seized substantial quantities of money, along with mobile devices, laptops, and SIM cards utilized in executing these fraudulent schemes.
Highlighting the severity of such offenses, Dubai Police underscored the legal repercussions outlined in the UAE Federal Penal Code of 1987 and the Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 concerning cybercrimes. Brigadier Harib Al Shamsi, Acting Director of the General Department for Criminal Investigation, urged residents to exercise caution and refrain from disclosing financial data to individuals claiming affiliation with financial institutions.
Instances of fraud frequently involve perpetrators alleging that victims' accounts or cards have been suspended or restricted. Al Shamsi emphasized the imperative of disregarding such fraudulent communications, reiterating that reputable banks do not solicit sensitive information via telephone. He advised customers to update their details exclusively through official channels such as bank branches, authenticated banking applications, or legitimate customer service representatives.
Victims of fraudulent activities are urged to promptly report incidents through various Dubai Police platforms, including the Police Eye feature on the Dubai Police App, the eCrime platform, the Smart Police Station (SPS), or by contacting the 901 helpline. Colonel Dr. Khalid Aref Al Sheikh, Director of the Anti-Economic Crimes Department, commended the department's efficacy in addressing numerous fraud alerts and assured citizens of the police force's continued vigilance and readiness to address such reports.
Furthermore, Al Sheikh emphasized the significant investment in cultivating a proficient national workforce capable of providing comprehensive support to the community around the clock. The concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies underscore Dubai Police's unwavering commitment to combating fraudulent activities and safeguarding the interests of residents and businesses alike.
