Dubai Police warns of fake ‘Consumer Protection’ scams targeting bank accounts

Dubai: Dubai Police has warned members of the public against opening suspicious links or downloading unknown software claiming to represent Consumer Protection, following repeated fraud attempts aimed at stealing victims’ money and personal banking information. The warning was issued by the Anti-Fraud Centre at the General Department of Criminal Investigation, which urged consumers to use only official Consumer Protection channels when submitting complaints and never share banking information with unauthorised parties. How the scam works According to Dubai Police, the fraud typically begins when a person searches online for a Consumer Protection platform to lodge a complaint. Instead of accessing the official website, victims are redirected to a fake platform where they are asked to provide personal information, including their name, email address, phone number and details of their complaint. Shortly afterwards, the victim receives a phone call from a fraudster posing as a Consumer Protection representative. By referring to the complaint details already submitted, the caller creates a false sense of legitimacy and gains the victim’s trust. Remote access and stolen data Once trust has been established, the fraudster instructs the victim to download remote-access software and log into their online banking account while the programme is running. Dubai Police said this allows criminals to view the victim’s screen, gain access to confidential banking information and carry out unauthorised transfers or purchases. The force explained that these malicious applications enable fraudsters to take control of computers and smartphones remotely by mirroring the device’s screen and accessing sensitive information. Stay vigilant The Anti-Fraud Centre urged the public to remain alert and avoid downloading software from unverified sources or sharing personal and banking information over the phone. Dubai Police advised anyone who receives suspicious calls or encounters similar fraud attempts to report them immediately through the eCrime platform or by calling 901. Authorities stressed that vigilance and the use of official channels remain key to protecting personal data and preventing financial fraud.