Dh500,000 fine: Dubai cops warn of fake charity cases

The Dubai Police have warned residents about fake online fundraisers and charity cases publicised on social media amid Covid-19. Some cyber criminals have been collecting donations for fraudulent campaigns, the police warned in a video shared on Saturday.

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They warned of fines of up to Dh500,000 for illegal fundraising campaigns organised online.

"Although the whole world demands solidarity to address current challenges, fraudsters are wasting no time to trick and deceive individuals," the police said.

The cops urged residents to make sure that the fundraising sites they contribute to are legal and approved in the country. They reminded people that they can only donate to registered organisations. Fundraisers organised online must have approvals from the authorities concerned.

Penalties

Anyone found guilty of managing a website and other IT or electronic means to promote the collection of donations without a permit from the bodies concerned can be fined Dh250,000 to Dh500,000 and/or imprisonment.

sahim@khaleejtimes.com