Fake Traffic Fines, Real Losses BD 1,000 Vanished in Seconds, Bahrain Residents Targeted by Sophisticated Scams
TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
Financial scams are reaching new heights in Bahrain and across the GCC, with fraudsters exploiting technology to swindle hard-earned money from unsuspecting victims. Despite numerous awareness campaigns, scam tactics continue to evolve, making it easier for criminals to deceive people.
A Bahrain-based expatriate, who prefers to remain anonymous, recently fell victim to a sophisticated phishing scam disguised as a traffic fine notification, last week. He received a text message claiming he had an overdue traffic fine and was directed to a fake website that closely resembled the official Bahrain Traffic Department’s payment gateway.
“I never suspected it was a scam because the website looked so genuine. I thought I had a BD 20 fine and decided to settle it immediately,” the victim told The Daily Tribune.
Trusting the website, he entered his credit card details, CPR number, and full name. Initially, BD 20 was deducted from his account, but within seconds, he received multiple SMS notifications about transactions, including AUD 4,000, AUD 2,000, and AUD 1,000 attempts.
“I called my bank immediately to block my card, but by then, the transactions had already gone through. Now, my biggest concern is paying interest on the stolen amount,” he added.
The victim has reported the fraud to his bank, and an investigation is underway. However, this incident is just one of many scams plaguing residents in Bahrain. The Daily Tribune has uncovered several new scams active in the Kingdom.
Ramadan Charity Scam
As Ramadan approaches, fraudsters are exploiting the spirit of giving by promoting fake water bottle donation offers on social media. Victims are lured through attractive advertisements and directed to WhatsApp for placing orders.
“They offered the victim five cartons of water bottles, promising two additional cartons for free. Then they sent a link for payment, which was used to steal all their bank details. One victim lost BD 2,000, while another lost BD 4,000,” said cybersecurity expert Ali Beshara.
Air Fryer Scam
A new scam involves fraudsters advertising a promotional offer where purchasing a carton of chicken for BD 10 allegedly includes a free air fryer. Victims are asked to confirm their order by making a small payment of one dollar online.
“This one-dollar transaction is all scammers need to steal your card details,” Beshara warned.
Fake Marriage Scam
The General Directorate of Anti-Corruption, Economic & Electronic Security (ACEES) recently issued a public notice regarding fake marriage opportunities. Fraudsters lure victims by showing videos of attractive women and promising large sums of money as incentives.
“These fake marriage registrations are designed to collect personal information, which is then used for fraud,” the ACEES warned.
High-Paying Job Scam
Another rising scam involves fake job offers promising high salaries for minimal work. Scammers send fraudulent messages asking victims to provide personal information in exchange for remote job opportunities. The ACEES urges people to verify companies before responding to such offers.
Authorities continue to warn citizens and residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities. Stay alert and protect your finances from these ever-evolving scams.
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