The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has warned users to beware of malicious WhatsApp messages purporting to be from the CBUAE.
In a statement on Thursday, the CBUAE warned local residents “to avoid responding to such messages, and opening any hyperlink that may be attached, which may provide exposure to a malicious website.”
The statement added that the CBUAE never users social media in its official communications with people or businesses, and reminded consumers to protect their bank account, credit and debit card information from fraud and unauthorized use.
Earlier this week, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) warned Dubai’s financial services community and the general public about a scam being committed by fraudsters purported to come from the DIFC Authority.
In an alert posted to its website on Monday, the DFSA noted that the scammers are using fraudulent e-mails and documents offering consumers loans of up to $125 million.
The e-mails include a fake loan agreement document bearing the DIFC’s logo and the name of its governor.
According to the DFSA warning, the scammers tell consumers they need to pay $10,000 in handling fees – which will not be refunded – in addition to $400,000 for expenses required to facilitate the loan. This, the scammers say, is refundable.
The DFSA Authority does not provide loans and therefore does not levy any fees or charges in relation to them.
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