Dubai police on Sunday cautioned its citizens about a SIM swap scam after some fraudsters attempted to gain confidential information from the people while posing as crisis officials. The warnings came after parts of Dubai witnessed explosions on Saturday, following the joint military attacks of the US and Israel on Iran.
Sharing a post on X, Dubai police forewarned residents that fraudsters were impersonating crisis officials and asking the commoners to share any confidential information or verification codes with unknown callers.
The police claimed that scammers are posing as employees from a so-called "Dubai Crisis Management" team and are falsely claiming connection to the Dubai police. The social media post added that the fraudsters are aiming to obtain sensitive information, including UAE Pass credentials and Emirates ID details.
The SIM Card Swap
The officials further added that providing such crucial information will allow criminals to do SIM card fraud. Fraudsters swap SIM cards by transferring a victim's phone number into a new SIM card controlled by the fraudster.
After gaining access, the criminals intercept banking messages and log into mobile banking applications, potentially stealing money within moments in a click.
Dubai Police stressed that they never request confidential information or verification codes through telephone calls or text messages under any circumstances.
Officials reassured the public that security systems remain active and that the situation is being closely monitored. Dubai people have been advised to remain calm but cautious and to report any suspected suspicious activity immediately by calling 901 or through the official crime platform dedicated to cybercrime complaints.
ALSO READ: ‘Grave Consequences’: Iranian Embassy In India Condemns Killing Of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei
Strikes In UAE
The United Arab Emirates has long promoted itself as a safe place to live. However, the military strikes have significantly undermined these claims of safety. Fires broke out at a luxury resort, the area around the world’s tallest tower was put at risk, and there were casualties at Abu Dhabi airport.
UAE defence officials said three people have died so far, including citizens of Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. An Indian national was among 58 foreign workers who were injured in the attacks since Saturday.
The strikes are said to be part of Iran’s response to large-scale military operations carried out by the United States and Israel.