Authorities in Dubai have issued a warning to residents about a surge in fake part-time job offers circulating on social media, which are exploited by scammers to launder stolen money through unwitting jobseekers.
Dubai Police have warned residents to be wary of fake part-time job offers circulating on social media and messaging apps after uncovering a scam that allegedly used a young man’s bank account to move stolen money.
The force said its Crime Prevention Department, part of the General Department of Criminal Investigation, had been looking into schemes that target jobseekers with promises of easy income and flexible hours. In the case described by police, a victim identified only as “S” replied to an online advert for remote work and was told his application had been provisionally accepted.
According to Dubai Police, the fraudsters claimed to represent an overseas financial services firm and instructed him to open a bank account in his own name or use an existing one for supposed administrative transactions. Money was then deposited into the account, after which he was told to transfer it to other accounts for a fixed commission. He said he believed he was doing legitimate work and did not realise he was helping a criminal network, police said.
The warning comes amid a wider pattern of online job scams in the United Arab Emirates. Gulf Today reported earlier this year that police had cautioned the public about fraudulent part-time and remote work offers that often begin with messages promising quick earnings for simple tasks. The National reported in July that similar scams have also promoted visas and jobs in exchange for money, often using fake company names or impersonating official bodies to appear genuine.
Dubai Police said such schemes can lead to financial losses, identity theft and possible legal trouble if a victim’s bank account is used for criminal transfers. The force urged people to verify any prospective employer before accepting work, avoid paying fees or sending money to secure a job and never share banking or personal details with unverified contacts. Suspicious offers can be reported through the eCrime platform or by calling 901 for non-emergency help.
Disclaimer: This article is intended to inform and educate, not to recommend or endorse any financial product, investment or strategy. Please consider your own financial circumstances and seek professional advice where appropriate before making financial decisions.
