Sharjah Police Reports Rise in Cybercrime Awareness Amid Decrease in Overall Crime Rates
Fake job offers and fraudulent advertisements remain prominent online threats in Sharjah, despite an overall decline in cybercrime incidents.
The Sharjah Police General Command has released a report indicating a significant decline in overall cybercrime rates in the first quarter of 2025. However, scams involving fraudulent job offers and deceptive advertisements continue to be the most frequently reported forms of cybercrime, according to Colonel Dr. Khalifa Yousif Al Bahlai, Director of Criminal Investigation at Sharjah Police.
Colonel Al Bahlai detailed that these schemes often entice victims with attractive job opportunities or product deals that appear too good to be true, frequently advertised on dubious online platforms.
The primary objectives of these scams typically involve the theft of personal information or the fraudulent solicitation of funds from unsuspecting victims.
Authorities noted that incidents involving fake advertisements for a variety of products and services, promising unrealistic offers, have also been prevalent.
These fraudulent listings are designed to deceive consumers and illicitly acquire their money.
Colonel Al Bahlai attributed the ongoing prevalence of these cybercrimes to factors such as excessive reliance on digital content, a general lack of cybersecurity awareness among the public, and the relative ease with which false online materials can be fabricated.
To mitigate these threats, he emphasized the importance of verifying sources before engaging with online content, using strong passwords, and implementing two-factor authentication measures for enhanced security.
Sharjah Police is actively committed to fostering public awareness regarding digital safety, urging community members to report any suspected cybercrime incidents.
Residents can utilize the 'Haris' service available on the Sharjah Police website, or can reach out to dedicated contacts at 0559992158 or 065943228 for concerns related to cybercrime.
For emergencies, the public is advised to contact 999.