Dubai Police have shut down 103 fraudulent social media accounts during the second quarter of 2026 as part of an ongoing effort to protect residents from online scams. This measure is among several initiatives contributing to a reported decline in various types of crime, including fraud, cybercrime, and economic offenses, during the first half of the year compared with the same period in 2025. However, the authorities have not released specific numbers detailing the extent of the reduction in each category.
The updates were provided during a performance evaluation meeting led by Major General Hareb Mohammad Al Shamsi, Deputy Commander-in-Chief for Criminal Affairs. Officials attributed the crime reduction to a combination of targeted field operations, proactive investigations, public awareness campaigns, and enhanced coordination among specialized units and partner organizations.
In addition, the police highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence and crime-data analytics in supporting investigations. These technologies have enabled officers to shift from merely responding to reported offenses toward anticipating and preventing potential criminal activities by identifying emerging threats more effectively.
The crackdown on social media fraud addresses a global issue, with similar concerns elsewhere. In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission reported that nearly 30 percent of individuals who lost money to fraud in 2025 said the scam began on social media platforms. Reported financial losses linked to social media scams reached $2.1 billion that year—eight times higher than in 2020. Among these, investment scams originating from social media accounted for $1.1 billion, while shopping scams were the most frequently reported, with over 40 percent of victims noting they had purchased items advertised on social media.
Dubai Police have issued repeated warnings about scammers exploiting social media and messaging apps to promote non-existent services and offers. On July 18, the force cautioned residents against fraudulent ads offering work, residency, and visit visas in exchange for money. These scams often involved the use of unlicensed company names or impersonation of official entities to deceive victims into making payments for bogus visa-related services.
Authorities have also alerted the public to fake travel websites and social media accounts promoting heavily discounted holiday packages, hotel accommodations, and airline tickets. The police advised residents to book travel through licensed agencies and verified platforms, verify website URLs carefully, and avoid pressure to make immediate payments.
These actions underscore Dubai Police’s commitment to leveraging technology and community cooperation in combating the evolving threat of online fraud and protecting the public from financial harm.