“REMINDER: Banks are urging everyone to stay vigilant against scammers.”
Banks are cautioning residents in the UAE to remain vigilant against a range of scams aimed at customers. These scams include fraudulent job offers, passport suspensions, and impersonation of government officials. Fraudsters employ various tactics to obtain personal and financial information. Banks are advising customers to exercise caution and stay informed about these different types of scams.
Common Online Scams to Watch Out For
Below is a compilation of eight fraudulent schemes that prominent banks in the UAE have advised customers to be cautious about:
1. Fake Mobile or Toll Account Recharge
It’s important to stay cautious as there are fraudulent websites out there that may imitate real ones. I urge everyone to verify the authenticity of the link or domain name and to check for security locks and certifications. Before proceeding with any transactions, it’s crucial to double-check the recharge amount, currency, and merchant name to ensure everything is in order. Your security is paramount.
2. Mismatched IBAN
Banks are advising customers to ensure that the IBAN corresponds to the account holder’s name when transferring funds to avoid inadvertently sending money to scammers.
3. Fake Job Offers
It is important to exercise caution regarding messages that claim to offer substantial earnings, such as $500 (Dh1,835) per day. It has come to our attention that individuals are posing as recruitment managers from reputable companies, presenting work opportunities through unofficial channels such as WhatsApp, SMS, or email. Prior to engaging with such offers, it is advisable to verify their authenticity in order to prevent potential fraud.
4. Loyalty Program Scams
Beware of scammers sending messages offering reward points that supposedly expire ‘today’. They direct residents to specific websites to claim these points. Banks advise customers to be cautious of SMS or messages about expiring reward points, as these can be tricks to steal money or personal information.
5. Fake Calls and Messages About Bank Details
The text advises customers to be cautious of fraudsters pretending to be companies or suppliers in order to obtain personal information and bank details. It emphasizes the importance of verifying such requests with authorized personnel from the concerned company before taking any action.
6. Impersonating Government Officials
Beware of a new scam targeting residents by falsely claiming that their passports have been suspended. The scammers are requesting residential addresses to supposedly avoid fines. It’s crucial to block and report any such messages without delay.
7. Social Engineering Frauds
Beware of scammers on social media trying to trick you into sharing sensitive information like your one-time password (OTP). Remember to never share personal information or reply to unknown individuals on social media to protect yourself from financial loss and potential identity theft.
8. Fake Bank Calls
Banks never ask for your account details over the phone. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a bank official and asking for this information, hang up immediately. Then, report the incident to your bank or the authorities.
Be Vigilant and Protect Yourself
Financial institutions strongly recommend that customers remain vigilant and take steps to avoid falling prey to these scams. It is crucial to always authenticate any requests for personal or financial information. It’s important to remember that reputable organizations will never solicit sensitive information through unsecured channels.
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Being well-informed and vigilant can effectively safeguard you from falling prey to the widespread online scams in the UAE.
