Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Dubai Police has issued a stern warning against the rising threat of online scams, including fraudulent fundraising using social media influencers and the recurring issue of "electronic begging" during Ramadan. Brigadier Saeed Al Hajri, Director of the Cybercrime Combat Department at Dubai Police’s General Department of Criminal Investigation, revealed that online fraud tends to spike during this period. "Scammers exploit people’s generosity by posing as charitable organizations or individuals in desperate need," he said. In a recent case, authorities arrested an individual who had been illegally collecting donations under the pretense of charity. Investigations uncovered that the suspect had used the funds to acquire properties in Dubai. "People need to be aware that not all online charity appeals are legitimate. Always verify before donating," Al Hajri emphasized. Authorities have also uncovered non-profit organizations engaging in unauthorized fundraising, often leveraging influencers to promote their activities. "These individuals and groups are professional fraudsters. They impersonate well-known organizations and use social media to deceive unsuspecting donors," Al Hajri added. He cautioned that scammers often use online links that bypass legal donation channels, such as the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments and the UAE Red Crescent. "By donating through unauthorized means, individuals may unknowingly contribute to money laundering or other illicit activities," he warned. One recent case involved an Arab national who created a website posing as a charity. He recruited influencers to promote it, successfully collecting donations for three years before being apprehended. "Even influencers who promote such campaigns could face legal consequences," Al Hajri noted. Dubai Police have been actively dismantling international cybercrime syndicates that target UAE residents. In a high-profile case, authorities uncovered a group operating overseas that lured victims using influencers and actresses. The gang blackmailed wealthy individuals by capturing compromising content and demanding large sums of money. One victim, after traveling to the UAE, reported the crime to Dubai Police, leading to the arrest of a social media influencer involved in the scheme. "These criminals prey on emotional loneliness and financial vulnerabilities. Victims should never remain silent—reporting such crimes is essential," Al Hajri urged. Dubai Police are ramping up awareness campaigns and urging residents to stay vigilant. "If a donation request seems suspicious or too good to be true, verify it through official channels," he advised. CAM/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page