The fake post on Facebook. EXPAT MEDIA

A fake advertisement offering a Van Cleef & Arpels pendant for just Dh251 is making the rounds on Facebook, luring unsuspecting UAE residents into a scam with promises of “shocking discounts.” The advertisement, which mimics the format of a legitimate UAE news report, falsely claims that the luxury jeweler’s iconic four-leaf clover pendant is being sold at a dramatic discount as part of a flash sale. It also falsely claims that lines had formed with people waiting up to four hours, and some fainting due to overcrowding and heat. The fake ad links to the website www.vancleefarpels-ae.top, which is not associated with the official Van Cleef & Arpels domain, vancleefarpels.com. A Dubai resident told Expat Media she nearly fell for the scam. “It looked too good to be true, and they even posted the website link as if it was the real deal. But as soon as I noticed the link, I knew this was another scam,” she said. Authorities have urged the public to avoid clicking on suspicious links or offers on social media. The misleading ad has since been reported to Facebook. On Sunday (June 15), Dubai Police revealed that it had dismantled a cybercriminal gang targeting UAE residents with similar schemes. According to the Dubai Police Anti-Fraud Centre, the gang sent fake promotional links via SMS and social media, impersonating legitimate brands like restaurants, delivery firms, and shopping websites. “Once a victim clicks on the link and enters their banking information, the gang uses that data to withdraw funds,” police said. The cybercriminals employed sophisticated social engineering techniques to create websites and messages that appeared authentic. Dubai Police has once again cautioned residents against trusting links from unknown sources, even if they appear to be associated with well-known brands. Residents are urged to report suspicious content through the “Police Eye” feature on the Dubai Police app, the eCrime platform, or by visiting the nearest police station. ICA/Expat Media
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