The Emirates ID. EXPAT MEDIA

Authorities in the UAE have issued a strong warning to residents: Never share copies of your Emirates ID or passport with unauthorized individuals or businesses. The alert follows a rising number of cases where personal documents have been misused for fraudulent activities. The Dubai Police and cybersecurity experts stress that scammers often request passport or Emirates ID copies under false pretenses—such as job offers, rental agreements, or investment opportunities—only to misuse them for identity theft. Criminals can use these documents to open bank accounts, apply for loans, or even commit fraud in the victim’s name. “Residents must be extremely cautious about where they share their personal information. Always verify the legitimacy of a company before handing over any sensitive documents,” said a cybersecurity expert from the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC).

How to protect yourself

- Only share copies of your Emirates ID and passport with authorized entities (e.g., government agencies, banks, or verified employers). - Do not email or WhatsApp these documents unless absolutely necessary. - Blur out sensitive details (such as your Emirates ID number) if a document is requested for verification. - Report suspicious requests immediately to Dubai Police’s cybercrime unit. Authorities emphasize that the misuse of Emirates IDs and passports is a serious criminal offense in the UAE. Individuals caught engaging in identity fraud could face hefty fines and jail time. ICA/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