Common WhatsApp Scams in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and How to Avoid Them

WhatsApp is no longer just a great communication tool for residents as well as expatriates around the UAE, but it has also made it a main target for scammers. Messages are often sent out by fraudsters from reputable-sounding names like organizations from governments and banks, delivery service providers, employers, etc.

The scams typically use “fear” and “urgency.” A person can be tempted to click potentially fraudulent links or enter information in fields within a fraudulent email if they are told that their Emirates ID is about to expire; their bank account will be blocked; or their parcel will be returned.

1. Fake Government and Police Messages

A frequent scam is when messages pretend they are from Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police, immigration or other government agencies. The victim can be informed that he has unpaid fines, visa issues or an Emirates ID problem.

The warning sign is someone asking for personally identifying information, including banking details and/or payment via an unfamiliar link. Do not reply, go to the official website or app of the respective authority and check for the information.

2. Fake Jobs and Visa Payment Scams

Fraudsters often post bright work-from-home or part-time employment opportunities that promise high paying per day earnings. Once trust is gained they can ask for a deposit which they will claim back, or training fees, or visa sorting.

It is especially true of job seekers from expatriates’ background. The UAE labour laws ban employers from bearing the costs of labour recruitment and employment.

3. Bank and OTP Scams

Scam SMSs can appear as an update notice to complete a KYC or can state that your card has been suspended. The scammer then asks for an OTP, PIN, CVV or login credentials.

Do not provide such codes on WhatsApp. If you got messages from your bank that you don’t recognise, call the bank line you know and trust or access your bank account via a digital channel.

4. WhatsApp Account Takeover

One easy but effective tip is that your supposed friend has “sent” their 6-digit WhatsApp verification code to the wrong person due to a loss. When you forward the code, the scammer may be able to log on to your account.

5. Fake Delivery Messages

Impersonating as a courier or postal representative, they might claim a package will not be delivered as there was an address issue or a minor balance due. The link is usually to a bogus money page, where you can steal information about the money.

Never click on a whats app link if you don’t receive the number or line from the official website or the app of the courier agency.

Stay Alert Against Scams Across the Gulf

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How Can You Safely Pay Traffic Fines?
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How to Protect Yourself?

Always use two-step verification, make sure WhatsApp software is updated and refrain from clicking on any suspicious links. Most importantly, do not provide OTPs, banking details or even a copy of your passport or Emirates ID to strangers.

Make sure to stop before reacting if a message instills panic or if it requires immediate payment. Those who are authentic have their own sources to contact their respective authorities and/or financial institutions.

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