UAE Ministry Warns Residents to Stay Alert Against Fraudulent Phone Calls

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has issued a strong warning to both citizens and residents in the UAE about a growing threat—fraudulent phone calls. These calls, made from unknown numbers, are being used by scammers to trick people into revealing sensitive personal or financial information.

According to MoHRE, the scammers use a method known as vishing (voice phishing). In this type of scam, callers pretend to represent official entities, such as government departments, banks, or law enforcement. Their main goal is to create fear or urgency so that the victim feels pressured into sharing important details like passport numbers, Emirates ID data, or even banking codes.

Why MoHRE Released the Warning

Fraudulent calls are not new in the UAE, but recent cases show that criminals are becoming more creative in their approach. MoHRE decided to issue this advisory to remind the public that no official authority will ever ask for confidential details over the phone.

In many of these cases, fraudsters claim they are calling from MoHRE itself or another government body. They might say your visa is at risk of cancellation, or that you owe a fine that must be paid immediately. Others claim they need to verify your banking details. While the reasons vary, the intention is always the same—to steal your personal information.

The Risks of Vishing

Unlike email phishing, where suspicious links or email addresses can raise doubts, vishing feels more convincing because it involves a live caller. Scammers sound professional, use official-sounding language, and often pressure the person to act quickly.

Once a victim gives away personal data, the consequences can be serious. Stolen information may be used for identity theft, financial fraud, or even to access residency and visa records. In some cases, fraudsters also target employers or HR departments to gain access to employee data. This makes businesses just as vulnerable as individuals.

MoHRE’s Official Statement

In its official post on X, the Ministry explained:

“To safeguard your personal data, we advise you to remain cautious of calls from unknown numbers. These may be fake and fall under ‘vishing’ (voice phishing), where the caller falsely claims to represent an official entity in order to obtain your personal or confidential information.”

MoHRE added that all official communication happens only through registered channels, such as service centers, verified portals, or official emails. Any caller demanding personal or financial details should be considered suspicious.

How Scammers Try to Trick People

Fraudulent callers usually have one objective—to make you share information that can later be misused. Common tactics include:

• Threatening to suspend your residency visa unless details are confirmed.
• Claiming you owe unpaid fines that need immediate payment.
• Offering false job opportunities in return for personal information.
• Asking for banking or card details under the guise of processing official payments.

These methods are designed to create panic and force quick decisions.

Consequences of Falling Victim

The impact of these scams can be damaging. Victims may find money withdrawn from their bank accounts without permission, or fraudulent charges appearing on credit cards. Some face issues with residency or employment if their official documents are misused. In severe cases, identity theft leads to long-term legal and financial problems.

Even well-educated and tech-savvy individuals can be deceived, which is why the Ministry continues to emphasize caution.

Advice From MoHRE: How to Stay Safe

MoHRE has issued clear guidance to the public to help avoid such scams. The key points include:

• Do not trust unknown numbers. Avoid answering or engaging with suspicious callers.
• Never share sensitive details. Do not disclose Emirates ID numbers, bank information, or online banking codes.
• Verify before acting. If someone claims to be from MoHRE, hang up and call the Ministry directly to confirm.
• Report suspicious calls. If you receive a fraudulent call, inform the Ministry immediately.

By following these steps, residents and businesses can significantly lower their chances of falling victim to fraud.

The UAE’s Broader Fight Against Cybercrime

The UAE has invested heavily in strengthening its cybersecurity framework. Authorities like the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), the Central Bank of the UAE, and the Ministry of Interior regularly run awareness campaigns and workshops.

Recent measures include tougher cybercrime laws, stricter telecom regulations to block fraudulent numbers, and the introduction of secure digital identity systems. Despite these efforts, officials agree that the human factor remains the weakest link, making public awareness campaigns essential.

Why the UAE Is a Target for Scammers

With its advanced digital infrastructure and diverse population, the UAE is seen as a prime target for scammers. Expatriates often deal with visa renewals, work permits, and banking processes—areas where fraudsters can exploit fears of losing legal status or facing penalties.

By impersonating government agencies, criminals take advantage of these concerns to trick people into giving away personal data.

Protecting Your Information

While the government has strong systems in place, individuals and businesses must also take responsibility for protecting their data. Simple habits can make a big difference:

• Regularly update banking and email passwords.
• Use two-factor authentication wherever possible.
• Avoid saving sensitive details on smartphones.
• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks.
• Educate family members, especially children and the elderly, about phone scams.

Employers should also ensure that their HR staff are trained to spot and report suspicious calls.

The Role of the Community

Fraud prevention is not only the job of the government. The community plays an important part too. Sharing information with friends, family, and colleagues can prevent others from becoming victims. Schools, universities, and workplaces are also encouraged to run awareness programs.

By working together, residents and authorities can build a safer digital environment.

Reporting Suspicious Calls

MoHRE has made it easy for the public to report fraudulent calls. The Ministry urges anyone who receives such a call to use its official channels:

• MoHRE Contact Centre: 600590000
• Email: ask@mohre.gov.ae

Quick reporting helps authorities take action and also protects the wider community from similar threats.

Key Takeaway

The message from MoHRE is clear—fraudulent phone calls are on the rise, but awareness is the best defense. Residents and employers must remain vigilant, avoid sharing personal data over the phone, and always confirm information through official sources. By reporting suspicious activity, the community can help protect itself and strengthen the UAE’s fight against cybercrime.