An online store that tempts customers with unbelievable discounts and promotions on must-have items, the site is sleek and professional, and social media is buzzing with their "too-good-to-be-true" deals. But once orders are placed and payments made, disaster strikes. Customers either receive counterfeit, poor-quality products or, worse, nothing at all. To add insult to injury, they soon discover unauthorized purchases or withdrawals made using the same card used for the purchase. This scenario, unfortunately, is a common story echoed in many cases reported by Dubai Police. Cyberfraud is recognized as a criminal offense under numerous legal frameworks worldwide, including the laws of the United Arab Emirates.
Welcome back to our ongoing conversation about safety in the digital world! Last month we discussed some impactful ways to protect your data. In today’s post, we address a pressing reality: what to do when cyber fraud strikes.
Start with the bank
The first step is to report the incident immediately to the bank and block your card. Thereafter, raise a dispute or a complaint with the bank on the incident. A lot of banks have insurance against such incidents and will accept to refund fully or partially the scammed amounts, following conducting an investigation.
Legal proceedings
In parallel, you may initiate legal proceedings under article 40 of the UAE's Federal Cybercrimes Law. Fraud that is committed through technology means is punishable by a minimum of: one year imprisonment and/ or AED 250,000 fine. Initiating legal proceedings under the Cybercrimes law would be the suitable option against cyberfraud. Official electronic platforms to report Cybercrimes are:
Ministry of Interior: https://x.com/moiuae/status/1762865429385531834
ECrime of Dubai Police: https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae/wps/portal/home/services/individualservicescontent/cybercrime/!ut/p/z0/04_Sj9CPykssy0xPLMnMz0vMAfIjo8zi_T29HQ2NvA18_X1D3QwCLV2cgjx9HY1djM30g1Pz9AuyHRUB6_Mbiw!!/?lang=ar
Aman by Abu Dhabi Police: https://srv.adpolice.gov.ae/en/aman/pages/default.aspx
Additionally, on the basis of article 451 concerning “Fraud” crime under the UAE Penal Law of 2021, you have an option of filing a criminal complaint before the Police.
Maximize your recovery
To secure the full compensation you deserve, it is crucial to seek an expert’s assistance in navigating the legal complexities and strategically incorporate all necessary elements to maximize your recovery. Our team is here to support you every step of the way and to help you reclaim what is rightfully yours.
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