The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has issued a public warning against fake online shopping sites and internet scams. This follows a surge in reported incidents of people falling victim to various forms of online fraud despite repeated warnings. In a recent incident, an expatriate was tricked into paying nearly Dh5,000 on a fake online promotion which led him to a counterfeit website that resembled the legitimate one. Once customers take the bait and proceed with payments using bank transfers or credit cards, the fraudsters disappear, leaving their victims in a state of distress and financial loss. Customers who fall for these scams could also end up with counterfeit goods or receive nothing at all. The ADJD shared a video on Instagram that shows the potential risks of purchasing products from shady websites promoted on social media platforms. They usually offer products at unrealistically low prices to capturing the attention of unsuspecting shoppers. Here are some ways to secure your accounts and avoid falling victim to online shopping scams. • Don't trust a website blindly because it is advertised on social media. • Examine each platform carefully before making a purchase. • Check the website's ratings and comments. • Purchase from well-established and well-known e-commerce sites with a track record of secure transactions. • Carefully read and understand the policies related to disputes, complaints, refunds, and contact information. KKL/Expat Media
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