In a crucial public warning, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has raised the alarm over a surge in online scammers impersonating the organization to deceive unsuspecting residents. The Ministry, taking swift action to curb these fraudulent activities, has emphasized the importance of verifying official communication channels to avoid falling victim to cybercriminals.
The warning, issued through social media platform X, comes in response to an increase in scams exploiting the Ministry’s name to trick individuals into providing sensitive information or making financial transactions. With digital fraud on the rise, the UAE authorities are taking proactive steps to safeguard citizens and residents from these malicious schemes.
To clarify its legitimate contact details, the Ministry stressed that the only authorized phone number for public inquiries is 0097180044444, while UAE citizens abroad should only use the emergency contact number 0097180024. Any other communication claiming to be from the Ministry should be treated with extreme caution, as it is likely an attempt to defraud individuals.
Scammers often employ sophisticated techniques, including fake emails, phone calls, and even fraudulent websites that mimic official government portals. These deceptive tactics can be alarmingly convincing, making it essential for residents to remain alert and verify any suspicious messages before responding. The Ministry has urged the public to never share personal details, banking information, or verification codes with unverified sources, as these are common tactics used by cybercriminals to exploit victims.
In light of this growing threat, cybersecurity experts recommend simple yet effective measures to protect against scams. These include double-checking website URLs, avoiding clicking on unknown links, and directly contacting official authorities to confirm the legitimacy of any communication. Additionally, the Ministry encourages individuals who encounter fraudulent messages to report them immediately, helping to prevent others from falling prey to similar scams.
As cyber threats evolve, the UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring public safety in the digital sphere. By staying vigilant and following official guidelines, residents can protect themselves from fraudsters and contribute to a more secure online environment.
