UAE authorities warn residents about scams involving fake job offers

Residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are strongly advised to think twice before forwarding messages in family group chats, as disinformation can spread rapidly among well-intentioned individuals.

The UAE regulator for telecommunications and digital government (TDRA) reminded users to pay attention to typical warning signs before sharing information. These signs include fake website links, spelling errors, and unusual design, which may indicate fabricated or misleading content.

TDRA also urged residents to verify the authenticity of information by checking whether the message has been covered by authoritative news outlets or published by official sources before passing it on. Furthermore, the authority noted that if someone unintentionally spreads false information, a polite correction can help stop the further dissemination of incorrect data and ensure better awareness among all participants.

This reminder came months after lawyers warned that private group chats on WhatsApp and social media are not exempt from UAE cybercrime laws. As previously reported by Khaleej Times, advocates stated that residents could face legal consequences for forwarding unverified information, publishing private conversations or images without consent, and reposting false, misleading, or defamatory content.

Sam Moore from BSA Law previously told Khaleej Times: 'Many people are often unaware that private WhatsApp chats and groups are not exempt from UAE laws, and spreading content can lead to legal consequences.' He advised residents to exercise caution and refrain from publishing or forwarding content that may be misleading, offensive, or intrusive.

Moore added that one of the most common mistakes is forwarding unverified news. According to UAE cybercrime law, forwarding a message can be considered republication, even if the sender did not create the content themselves. He emphasized: 'A WhatsApp user who forwards a message, such as a news update, video, or comment, can be held responsible if the content is false, misleading, defamatory, or otherwise illegal.'

Meanwhile, legal expert Dr. Hassan Elkhais noted that UAE courts consistently treat the dissemination of content via WhatsApp, email, or social media as a new act of publication. Authorities can use chat logs, screenshots, and metadata as evidence, with courts often focusing on the impact of the dissemination rather than the presence of malicious intent.

Dr. Elkhais concluded: 'Courts have repeatedly stressed that the absence of malicious intent does not automatically negate liability. The focus is often on the effect of the dissemination, rather than the subjective intention behind it.'

The Department of Social Development (DSD) has warned South Africans, particularly young people, to be vigilant regarding fake online job offers. These offers are increasingly being used by human traffickers to lure victims into forced criminal activities.

This warning comes in the context of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, whose global theme is 'Trapped by Deception.' This theme highlights how organized crime syndicates exploit fraudulent employment opportunities advertised primarily on social media.

Young South Africans are being transported to Myanmar

The DSD Manager for Human Trafficking, Buti Kulwane, reported that there is a growing number of young South Africans being abducted and sent to criminal centers in Myanmar after agreeing to what appeared to be legitimate job offers in Thailand.

Instead of starting new jobs, victims are moved across the border between Thailand and Myanmar, where they are forced to participate in financial cybercrimes under brutal conditions. Several groups of victims from South Africa have been rescued and returned home since 2024.

Victims are lured with promises of high salaries

According to the department, victims are often promised attractive earnings, free travel, and work abroad. However, instead, many endure long working days, intimidation, violence, and debt bondage. Some survivors have also reported being forced to recruit friends and relatives, thereby helping traffickers expand their criminal networks.

Government calls for caution

DSD strongly recommends that young people verify all overseas job offers, thoroughly research employers and recruitment agencies, consult family members before accepting offers, and avoid relying solely on information posted on social media. Parents, guardians, educators, and community groups were also advised to discuss the dangers of online job scams and human trafficking with young people.

Support for survivors

The department stated that it collaborates with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Border Control Management, the Department of the Interior, and civil society organizations to assist surviving victims of human trafficking. This assistance includes psychosocial support, family reunification, and reintegration services.

How to report suspected human trafficking

Anyone who suspects human trafficking or exploitation is urged to report it immediately to SAPS at 10111 or to the Gender-Based Violence Centre at 0800 428 428. The department confirmed its commitment to working with partners through the National Inter-sectoral Committee on Trafficking to prevent this issue, protect victims, and strengthen awareness campaigns across South Africa.