Abu Dhabi Police warn of fake consumer protection platforms

Abu Dhabi Police are alerting the public to a rise in sophisticated online scams. Fraudsters are creating fake websites and social media accounts that mimic official consumer protection agencies. These deceptive platforms appear in search engine results, luring unsuspecting individuals seeking to file complaints or report issues with goods and services.

“

These, the ADP said, appear through search engines with the aim of luring victims, obtaining their personal and banking data, or convincing them to download applications and programmes which enable fraudsters to access their devices.

The primary goal of these scams is to obtain victims' personal and banking information. Scammers may also trick users into downloading malicious applications that grant them access to personal devices. The police explained that fraudsters exploit the public's desire to resolve consumer disputes.

“

Fraudsters exploit some people's desire to file complaints related to commercial goods or services or against shops, ADP explained.

To combat this threat, Abu Dhabi Police urge everyone to meticulously verify the authenticity of websites and links before sharing any sensitive data. They emphasize that personal or banking details, and any monetary transactions, should only be conducted through official and approved channels. It is crucial to confirm the identity of any online entity before engaging.

“

ADP urged the public to verify the authenticity of websites and links used, and not to share personal or banking data or transfer any money except through official and approved channels, while ensuring to verify the entities they communicate with online.

The authorities encourage the community to report all instances of electronic fraud and suspicious online practices. This can be done via the "Aman" service by calling 8002626, sending an SMS to 2828, or using the Abu Dhabi Police smart application. Such reports are vital for enhancing digital security and protecting society from cybercrimes.

“

It is important to report electronic fraud and suspicious practices through "Aman" at the number (8002626), via SMS to (2828), or through Abu Dhabi Police smart application, which contributes to enhancing digital security and protecting society from cybercrimes.