SECURITYFake Banking and Delivery Apps in the UAE: Dubai Police Advice on Unverified Apps

Fake Apps: How to Avoid Malware on Your Phone

Dubai Police’s e-Crimes and cybersecurity unit warns about apps that do not come from official stores. A video from the department showed how fraudsters disguise malicious software as banking, investment, delivery or security-update apps, then wait for the victim to install it.

What to do

1. Install apps only from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
2. Never share passwords, PINs or one-time codes, even with someone who says they are a friend or relative asking for a quick fix.
3. Install trusted security software.
4. Turn on banking alerts so unusual transactions are flagged.
5. If something looks wrong, report it through the Dubai Police smart app, call 901 or submit a case on the eCrime platform.

These tricks often start with a fake call or message, so read our guide on fake official calls and messages.