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**Dubai Police Launches Campaign to Combat WhatsApp-Based Cybercrime Targeting Residents**
Authorities in Dubai have initiated a new campaign aimed at identifying and apprehending hackers who specifically target smartphone users via the WhatsApp messaging application. The campaign comes amidst heightened warnings about cybercriminals attempting to steal personal data and banking card information through deceptive tactics.
Lieutenant Colonel Ali Al Yamahi, Director of the Anti-Cybercrime Department, emphasized the seriousness with which residents should treat any attempts to hack their devices or breach their digital privacy. He stressed the critical importance of promptly reporting such incidents, stating this is vital for identifying offenders and protecting victims from potential blackmail or data theft.
Al Yamahi revealed that some fraudsters utilize sophisticated social engineering techniques to convince victims to disclose their banking details. He highlighted that these criminals exploit the public's trust in official entities to achieve their malicious goals.
He outlined the available channels for reporting cybercrime. Residents can submit complaints electronically through the official Dubai Police platform, which allows attaching supporting evidence like suspicious messages or phishing links. Additionally, reports can be filed directly from smartphones using the Dubai Police mobile app.
Al Yamahi assured the public that all reports are handled confidentially. Specialized teams utilize advanced digital forensics to trace the source of cyberattacks. He affirmed that their law enforcement teams possess the necessary technical and legal capabilities to combat cybercrime effectively. He advised residents to remain vigilant online, avoid downloading unverified applications, and regularly update their devices.
**Specific Tactics and Warnings from Cyber Investigations Department**
Major Abdullah Al Shehhi, Director of the Cyber Investigations Department, provided further insight into evolving criminal tactics. He stated that cybercriminals are becoming increasingly deceptive. A common method involves sending WhatsApp messages from numbers appearing to be familiar contacts or names, luring users into clicking on malicious links. He warned that scammers may also pose as legitimate institutions or use familiar numbers to request banking details.
Al Shehhi issued additional cautions against answering fraudulent calls or engaging with fake websites. He explained that these websites often exploit major events and public occasions to trick users with false offers or services.
He highlighted the ongoing evolution of fraudster tactics specifically designed to steal sensitive banking information, which is subsequently used for illegal fund withdrawals. Major Al Shehhi reiterated the critical reminder for residents never to share confidential details such as bank account information, online passwords, ATM PINs, or CVV numbers.
**Authorities' Protective Advice**
Authorities emphasized that legitimate bank representatives will never request such sensitive data. They encouraged the use of cybersecurity software capable of blocking malicious websites and malware designed to steal financial information. They also reminded the public to use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and immediately report any incident of hacking or online extortion through official channels or by visiting the nearest police station.
