The Drydocks World with the Dubai skyline. ARCHIVE

Dubai Police’s Anti-Fraud Centre has dismantled a fraud network promoting misleading social media ads offering 30 percent to 70 percent "discounts" on traffic fines—a scheme that actually involved stolen bank card data and financial deception. The fraudsters posted unofficial advertisements claiming they could reduce traffic penalties. Victims were told to pay full fines using their bank cards; the perpetrators used stolen card details to process the transactions. Once the payment cleared, they handed back half the amount in cash—representing the alleged “discount.” Dubai Police emphasized this constituted a dual crime—bank fraud and misuse of stolen data. Officials warned that individuals who knowingly engage in these “discount” schemes may be considered legal accomplices. Authorities strongly urge the public to rely only on official channels designated by law enforcement to settle fines. Offers outside these frameworks are illegal and punishable. Citizens are encouraged to immediately report suspicious financial activity through the “Police Eye” feature within the Dubai Police app or by calling 901. ICA/Expat Media
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