The top 3 ways to avoid falling victim to scams are by looking at the origin of emails, paying attention to the phone number of WhatsApp messages and whether the account is verified, and sticking to official channels and steering clear of suspicious payment links.
This Pacific Prime Dubai article will get you up to speed on two common scams circulating in the UAE to help you stay alert and safe. We’ll also explain more generally how expats in the UAE can properly protect themselves with international health insurance.
3 Ways to Identify a Scam Message
A fake spam text example worth knowing is one that says you have a package waiting to be delivered yet have to pay a nominal shipping amount to receive it. While it may sound possible, don’t click on the payment link before you’re sure that you’re not about to fall victim to a phishing attack.
Gulf News has an article on the Emirates Post scam, following numerous social media posts from the postal service provider. Through their awareness campaigns, Emirates Post reminds UAE residents to stay vigilant. Emirates Post offers three ways to tell if you’ve received a scam message.
1. The Email Address
Have a good look at the email address, as hackers use domains that are as close as possible to the brand they’re targeting. If you can’t see the complete email address, simply tap on the sender’s address name to reveal it.
The domain name (the part that follows the @ in an email address) will let you know where the email actually originated. Take the following sender as an example: Emirates Post
While Emirates Post might look like an authentic sender, the domain name (kpnail.nl) clearly tells you it’s fake. You can also run the email through a scam email checker if you’re still unsure.
2. The Phone Number
What if you receive a WhatsApp alert instead of an email? Fret not, as there are also scam signs for those.
Don’t rely on the profile picture alone, as anyone can add an official logo. Pay attention to the phone number instead. WhatsApp messages from Emirates Post won’t be from a private mobile number. Moreover, you can easily tell that an account is verified if it has a green check mark next to it.
3. Payment Links
Avoid clicking on suspicious payment links and stick to official channels to be safe.
Emirates Post has stated that customers can track shipments and contact customer service representatives through WhatsApp. What they can’t do is pay for shipping or a parcel, as that must be done through Emirates Post’s official website or mobile app.
Cheap Airline Ticket Scams
An article by The National talks about the dangers of purchasing cheap, last-minute airline tickets. According to Col Saeed Al Hajiri, Dubai Police’s Cybercrime Department Director, airline ticket fraud is common during the holiday season.
Tips for Avoiding Airline Ticket Scams
Your best bet is to book your airline ticket directly through verified airline companies and agents, says Col Saeed Al Hajiri. Official channels are the way to go, as scammers are known to make fake websites that look like an official agent or airline company.
Also, only work with travel agents that are approved by the UAE’s Economic Development Department and always check their permission or licenses.
Reporting Scams and Online Fraud
If you receive a message, text, or email that you suspect to be a scam, take a screenshot and send it to the company’s customer service. For Emirates Post, you can send screenshots of any suspicious activity to custservice@emiratespost.ae or call 600 599 99 (toll-free).
Additionally, UAE residents can report any illegal online activity through various platforms, including:
Trusting Your Instincts
In a world where scams are increasingly sophisticated, trusting your instincts can be your best defense. If something feels off or too good to be true, it likely is.
Scammers prey on emotions, often presenting enticing offers that seem irresistible. Whether it’s an unbelievable investment opportunity or a too-good-to-pass-up prize, if your gut tells you something isn’t right, take a step back.
Listen to that inner voice. It’s often rooted in intuition developed from past experiences.
When faced with a suspicious situation, consider the details: Are there discrepancies in the story? Is the offer time-sensitive, pressuring you to act quickly? Scammers like to exploit urgency and fear to get you to bypass your critical thinking.
Additionally, research is crucial. Verify claims through reliable sources, and consult trusted friends or family for their opinions. Always remember that if an offer requires secrecy or discourages you from seeking advice, that’s a red flag.
Your instincts are a valuable tool in detecting scams. Trusting your gut feelings can save you time, money, and emotional distress. Stay vigilant, and don’t hesitate to question the legitimacy of offers that seem too good to be true. Always prioritize your safety and well-being over quick gains.
Stay Healthy with Pacific Prime Dubai
Speaking of protecting yourself, one way to ensure your health and safety is by securing comprehensive health insurance. Whether you’re looking for international health insurance, short-term and travel insurance in Dubai or family insurance overseas, Pacific Prime Dubai has a plan for you.
As a reputable insurance broker with over 25 years of industry experience, Pacific Prime has the knowledge and expertise to ensure you get the best plan for your needs and budget.
What’s more, you’ll get access to our expert insurance advisors and value-added services at no extra cost compared to going directly to an insurer. Contact us for impartial insurance advice and a free plan comparison today!
Since joining Pacific Prime, Martin has become even more aware of the gap between the true value of insurance products and most people’s appreciation of it, and developed a passion for demystifying and simplifying matters, so that more people get the protection they need at a cost they can easily afford.
In his free time, Martin attends concerts of various genres, and plays the violin with piano accompaniment he pre-recorded himself or played live by his niece.