Online Scams & Fraud in The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Online scams and fraud are a significant concern in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with a substantial number of consumers falling victim to fraudulent activities. According to reports, four in ten UAE consumers have experienced online fraud attempts, highlighting the prevalence of this issue. Online scams can take various forms, including phishing emails, fraudulent websites, fake online marketplaces, investment scams, and identity theft.
Online scammers use tricky methods to fool people and get their personal information, like bank details, or even steal their money. That's why it's really important for people living in the UAE to be careful and watch out for common scams.
Read on and learn where you can report scams in the UAE, where to get victim support, and some of the popular scams in the UAE.
Scam Statistics in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The key statistics on online fraud in The United Arab Emirates (UAE), according to the Global Anti-Scam Alliance.
| 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |
| Population | 9.6 million | 9.77million | 9.8 Million | 9.9 million |
| Internet Penetration | 99% | 99% | 99% | 99% |
| # of Scams | 1 Million | 1740 | ||
| Scams / 1,000 | 102.3 | 0.17 | ||
| Money Lost | € 1 billion | € 21.95 million | ||
| Money Lost / Capita | € 102 | € 2.2 | ||
| Money Lost / Report | € 1,000 | € 12,614.37 |
The figures in the table will differ strongly per year as various sources have been used, pending on availability.
Where Can I Report a Scam in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)?
- UAE Ministry of Interior - Cyber Crime Department: The UAE Ministry of Interior has a Cyber Crime Department that handles online crimes, including scams.
- Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA): The TRA in the UAE may also be involved in handling online scams, especially those related to telecommunications and information technology.
- The Police - Contact the local police to report the scam. You can reach them through email (aman@adpolice.gov.ae) or through the Police smartphone app.
- Abu Dhabi Police- You can report any cybercrime to the Abu Dhabi police through SMS to 2828 or call 8002626 or through their online portal.
- Dubai Police- If you are in Dubai, you can reach out to the Dubai Police at 04 606 1600.
How to Report a Scam in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Reporting a scam is crucial. At the moment, only 7% of all scams are reported. As a result, only 0.05% of all cybercriminals are caught. Reporting online fraud is not only essential if you want to try and get your money back. It is also needed to help law enforcement fight scammers better.
- Gather info: Collect all information about the suspected fraud including the name, telephone, key web pages, emails, IP address, and any other information relevant. This is needed to file a complete report.
- Report the incident: Always report to your local law enforcement and note the file number they might provide for your fraud report for future reference.
- Stop the Money: Report the incident to the financial institution that transferred the money such as your bank, Paypal, credit card company, or the Internet payment service provider.
- Protect yourself: Scammers often contact you again. Sometimes with the same scam. Sometimes to help you “recover your money”. Consider changing your email address/phone number. Also, install the ScamAdviser browser extension to warn you of scams.
Our article “How and Where to Report a Scam” gives you more detail and tips on how you can best report online fraud.
Scam Victim Support in The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
We are unaware of any scam victim support in The United Arab Emirates (UAE). You can consult with a local licensed therapist, counselor, or psychologist who specializes in trauma or Crime victims.
How to check for a scam in The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Of course, you can always check for scams on ScamAdviser.com. However, there are several other sources where you can check if a website is registered as a company and if it can offer financial, gambling, or other regulated services.
- Dubai Financial Services Authority- As the regulatory authority for the Dubai financial markets, you can check here for financial and investment scams.
- Consumer Protection Department- Usually operates under the Ministry of Economy, consumers can check for commercial fraud here.
Popular Scams in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Impersonation Scams
Impersonation scams in the UAE involve receiving a call from an unknown number, with the caller claiming to be a government officer. These scammers often impersonate government officials and exploit people's trust in authorities. They may falsely accuse individuals of violating specific laws and use fear tactics to pressure them into disclosing personal bank details or making financial transactions.
It's important to remember that legitimate government authorities would never request sensitive personal information like bank details over the phone. If you receive such a call, it is crucial to exercise caution, hang up immediately, and report the incident to the relevant authorities to protect yourself and others from falling victim to these impersonation scams.
Scam News From the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Image source: unsplash.com
Report a Scam!
Have you fallen for a hoax, bought a fake product? Report the site and warn others!
Scam Categories
Help & Info
Top Safety Picks
Your Go-To Tools for Online SafetyDisclaimer: Some of the links here are affiliate links. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
- ScamAdviser App - iOS : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on iOS
- ScamAdviser App - Android : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on Android.
- NordVPN : NordVPN keeps your connection private and secure whether you are at home, traveling, or streaming from another country. It protects your data, blocks unwanted ads and trackers, and helps you access your paid subscriptions anywhere. Try it Today!
- Incogni : Incogni automatically removes your personal data from data brokers that trade in personal information online, helping reduce scam and identity theft risks without the hassle of manual opt-outs. Reclaim your privacy now!
Popular Stories
In a nutshell: A good VPN protects your privacy with strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and fast protocols like WireGuard. The best VPNs also offer wide server coverage, leak protection, and easy-to-use apps for all devices. For 2025, the top providers are NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost, and Mullvad—each excelling in speed, security, or value. In an age where every click is tracked, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is no longer just a luxury—it's an essential tool for digital privacy and security. A VPN works by creating a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, masking your real IP address and protecting your sensitive data from prying eyes. But with hundreds of providers out there, how do you sort the secure from the suspect? This guide breaks down the non-negotiable features of a quality VPN and highlights the 7 top-rated services for 2025. What to Look for in a Good VPN: The 4 Non-Negotiable Pillars 1. Ironclad Security Features Strong Encryption: AES-256, the gold standard. Secure Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, NordLynx, Lightway. Avoid PPTP. Kill Switch: Ensures no accidental IP leaks. Leak Protection: Covers DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC. 2. Verified Privacy Practices No-Logs Policy: No activity or metadata tracking. Independent Audits: Verification by third parties. Safe Jurisdiction: Prefer countries outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances. 3. High-Speed Performance Fast Protocols: WireGuard and equivalents. Large Server Network: Less crowding, more reliable speeds. 4. Essential Usability Features Multi-Device Apps: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, routers. Simultaneous Connections: One account, many devices. Unblocking Power: Netflix, Hulu, BBC
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family After a Data Breach When Your Data Falls Into the Wrong Hands Just received that terrifying notification? Or perhaps you've noticed suspicious activity in your accounts? Take a deep breath. A data breach, the unauthorized access or exposure of sensitive, protected, or confidential data, is a deeply unsettling event. It can plunge you into a world of worry, bringing risks from financial losses and identity theft to significant emotional distress and reputational damage. The numbers don't lie: according to a 2024 report, the number of data breach victim notices has grown by a staggering 211% year-over-year. This isn't just a distant threat; it's a stark reality many individuals face. This year alone, we've seen major organizations like Adidas and Qantas grapple with high-profile data breaches, affecting countless customers. This underscores a critical truth: nobody is untouchable. Subsequently, strategic action is the only way to minimize the risk and protect your future. This guide is your emergency action plan, designed to walk you through every crucial step—from confirming the breach to fortifying your digital life for the long term. Part 1: Confirming the Breach and Understanding the Damage The very first step is to answer the question definitively: Was my data compromised, and if so, how badly? Start with the basics: Check Official NotificationsReputable companies are legally obligated to inform you if your data was part of a breach. Look for official emails, letters, or public announcements. Check Verified Breach DatabasesPlatforms like HaveIBeenPwned help you see if