Tue, Nov 26, 2024 | Jumada al-Awwal 24, 1446 | DXB ktweather icon0°C

Covid UAE: Fake food, shopping websites on the rise; police issue warning

Top Stories

Photo: Reuters

Photo: Reuters

Sharjah - The public has been urged not to fall prey to fraudsters.

Published: Thu 25 Mar 2021, 12:53 PM

Updated: Thu 25 Mar 2021, 2:02 PM

Authorities in the northern emirates of Sharjah and Ajman have intensified their cyber patrols in a bid to crack down on fake food and shopping websites that steal cash from victims’ bank accounts.

ALSO READ:

>> Video: UAE police nab 'phone scam' gang

>> UAE gold scam: 4 fined Dh10 million each for duping 4,000 Filipinos

Police officials said that they have received several complaints about such illegal activities.

The fraudsters use fake websites with the names of well-known restaurants and shopping centres in the emirates to lure unsuspecting customers to part with their cash.

Major Nora Al Shamsi, Director of Media and Public Relations Department, Ajman Police, said the authorities have intensified their awareness campaign and warned the public to exercise caution when dealing with online websites.

The public has been urged to make a phone call to order food or any other items and pay in cash at the time of the delivery.

Furthermore, authorities have issued electronic warnings regarding these fake websites that misuse the names of popular restaurants and shopping outlets.

The police have found that these illegal activities have gone up exponentially owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, as people are largely confined indoors and are increasingly opting for goods to be delivered to their homes.

The public must pay attention and be cautious while placing any kind of order in a bid to prevent themselves from getting duped by these fraudsters, they said.



Next Story