UAE Residents Targeted in Rising Email Scam Wave
The UAE authorities have issued warnings. There is a recent increase in email scams targeting residents with fabricated invoices. These emails allege that well-known companies like PayPal and McAfee Security have incurred charges. The amounts range from AED 1,400 to AED 2,200.
Recipients are informed that these payments have been disbursed or will appear in their accounts soon. They are urged to act quickly, usually within 24 hours, to revoke the supposed transactions.
Victims are directed to call a U.S. phone number listed in the scam email. Scammers then convince them to allow remote access to their devices. This enables criminals to steal sensitive data. That includes banking details and credit card information. Often, this happens without the victims’ knowledge.
Officials stress that legitimate organizations do not request remote access. They also don’t demand urgent payments through unsolicited emails or calls.
Cyber fraud:
This scam is part of a larger trend of cyber fraud in the UAE. Fraudsters use fake emails and texts to impersonate government bodies, courier firms, and banks. For example, users have received phishing emails using the Etisalat logo. These falsely claim their accounts have been suspended. Victims are asked to click on malicious links. These lead to fake websites designed to steal data.
The UAE’s telecom and postal authorities have issued multiple warnings. They urge residents to verify email sources. They also advise not to click on suspicious links.
Experts advise residents to be cautious. Do not respond to unexpected requests for personal information or money. Avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or calling numbers in scam emails.
Financial institutions in the UAE have launched awareness campaigns. These campaigns encourage consumers to stay alert. They also promote reporting of suspicious messages.
Authorities continue efforts to fight email scams. The best defense is increased awareness among residents.
