Police warn against fake charity forward messages

dubai — The Dubai Police have urged people to stop publishing or republishing messages stating that there are people who pay the debts of prisoners, provided that the amount does not exceed Dh50,000.

Major-General Khalil Ibrahim Al Mansouri, assistant commander-in-chief for the criminal investigation department, said that legal action will be taken against people who circulate such messages without knowing their source.

He denied the messages sent on WhatsApp or other social media about such charity in Ramadan for widows or orphans, attached with phone numbers. He said that these messages are often plotted against the owners of the numbers. “They are trying to exploit those in need and it is the women who fall prey to these messages easily. The women are often asked to send passport copies, personal photos or information for identity verification, which could be misused.”

He said that people should resort to charities licensed by the state. “Those wishing to donate should do so by contacting the authorities concerned in this regard, instead of relying on such messages that can potentially be exploited in bad way.” He called on the members of society not to circulate such messages so as not to be partners in harming others.

A sample message reads as follows: “Who knows a friend arrested or imprisoned for a debt of not more than Dh50,000. Call on the numbers today and if God willing, he will break his fast with his family in Ramadan. Any needy family during the month of Ramadan will benefit and if you do not need, circulate it so others can benefit.”