Beware, parents: Scammers in UAE out to steal credit card details from gaming sites

Abu Dhabi - In some instances, these websites trick users into paying more to complete the stages of a game.

Parents should be careful when buying online games for their kids, the Abu Dhabi Police have warned, as they found that scammers can steal credit card details from gaming websites.
The police said such purchases or gaming subscriptions should be done only on trusted websites. Fraudsters use unauthorised sites to obtain credit card information and hack accounts that may lead to automatic monthly charges, they added.

"It is good for parents to buy children's games through sites that implement safety controls. Also, they should use credit cards with a limited balance," the authorities said.
In some instances, these websites trick users into paying more to complete the stages of a game.
"This not only puts the pressure on parents who have to pay additional fees, it also exposes them to further risks of getting their bank information exposed."
The warning comes as children are spending more time playing online games these days, amid the #StayHome protocols put in place as part of efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Authorities, however, advise parents to monitor their children's online activities. It would also be good to put a limit on their screen time, they added.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com 

• Abu Dhabi