The risks of Ramadan giving
Giving to beggars online could result in losing money – and supporting criminals
Agrowing number of people are falling victim to online scams circulating via email and WhatsApp, as scammers take advantage of people’s good nature, particularly during the month of Ramadan, to defraud them of money that ought to be given to the needy. While police monitor the streets to crack down on beggars who fly into the country during this month, social media users have to be on their guard and make sure they are not swindled.
Vigilance is of the essence. It starts with verifying that the person behind the computer is truly who they say they are. Teenagers and young adults are the most vulnerable. They are easily preyed upon via social media and can land themselves in situations that endanger their safety. They are tricked into bogus friendships by scammers who approach them via their supposed friends and are gradually made to believe that the relationship is real. Just after the victim has handed over private information, they see their savings depleted and realise they have fallen into the fraudster’s trap.
Cybersafety classes should be introduced in educational curricula, within digital literacy classes, for they are equally essential to the evolution of individuals in a knowledge society. This would allow schools to step up and play their role in teaching pupils about the risks of improper use of social media, to cooperate with parents and ensure children don’t fall prey to extortionists.
Nationwide campaigns were launched by law enforcement authorities to warn the public against obliging beggars in the streets, and urge expatriates and nationals to beware of online scams and refrain from communicating private information online, in light of the rise of cybercrimes over the recent period.
One should also bear in mind that cybercrime is often related to cyberterrorism, and when giving money to people online, it is impossible to trace where the money goes. Criminals could be using it to fund illicit activities or outlawed groups.
It is always safer to donate through authorised parties and licensed charities, if we want our gesture to reach those who are truly in need – and avoid those who need to fund their criminality.