UAE detects 1,200 deepfake donation scams in 2024
The UAE Cybersecurity Council detected over 1,200 cases of online begging and donation fraud scams in 2024, with criminals using deepfake technology and fake social media accounts to impersonate real individuals and solicit donations. Authorities collaborated to shut down fraudulent accounts and advised the public to verify donations through licensed organizations only.
What happened
Over 1,200 cases of online begging and fraudulent donation campaigns were detected by the UAE Cybersecurity Council in 2024, with scammers exploiting social media platforms particularly during Ramadan.
Fraudsters used fake accounts, emotionally charged videos, and deepfake technology to impersonate real individuals and solicit donations from unsuspecting victims.
Reported impact
The scams impacted individuals across all demographics in the UAE, with cybercriminals manipulating public sentiment during religious occasions and holidays to steal funds.
Index analysis
The UAE Cybersecurity Council employed advanced technologies to detect fraudulent accounts, analyse suspicious patterns, and track illicit financial transactions.
Authorities collaborated with security agencies and financial institutions to shut down fake accounts and prosecute offenders.
Governance controls
The Council advised the public to verify donation requests through licenced organisations only and to report suspicious activity to authorities.
Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity of the UAE Government, urged residents to authenticate donation requests and exercise caution when sharing financial information online.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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