A familiar face or voice on a screen is not proof that a message is genuine. Deepfake tools can make a call, video or voice note look convincing enough to create pressure. The safest response to an unexpected request for money, a one-time code, a password or personal data is to slow down and verify it through a channel you already trust.
Recognise pressure as a warning sign
Scams often try to prevent a second thought: “act now”, “keep this secret” or “do not hang up”. A real family member, bank, employer or public body will not become less legitimate because you independently verify the request. End the call if necessary, then contact the person or organisation through a known number or official website.
| What you notice | Safer response |
|---|---|
| Unexpected urgent request | Pause before doing anything |
| New number or account | Verify independently |
| Request for code or password | Do not share it |
| Unusual video or voice | Use a second trusted channel |
Verify without exposing more information
Do not reply with passport details, bank information, passwords or authentication codes while you are uncertain. Ask a question only the real person would know, but avoid turning the exchange into a quiz that reveals more private facts. A better step is to call a saved number, contact a verified workplace line or speak to the person face to face.
Save evidence in a safe way: screenshots, account name, time and the message content can help with a report. Do not forward a suspicious file widely or click a link merely to “see what it is”. Tell a relative who may be vulnerable to the same approach, especially if the scam impersonates family or an authority.
Deepfake-scam checklist
- Pause when a message creates urgency or secrecy.
- Never share codes, passwords or banking details.
- Verify through a saved number or official channel.
- Save relevant evidence without forwarding suspicious links.
- Report suspected fraud through the appropriate official route.
Useful planning does not happen in isolation. Before setting out, check how to use a nol card, Dubai parking options and our licensed taxi guide so the journey itself is simple. For a different kind of inter-emirate outing, the UAE road-trip planning guide is a separate resource; food preparation is covered in our packed-lunch safety guide, while Dubai traffic-diversion advice helps drivers check the route close to departure.
For current authoritative information, use Dubai Police. Check the official source again before committing to a journey, payment or booking because programmes and public-service details can change.
Make verification a household habit
Agree with close relatives that unexpected payment requests will always be checked through a second channel. A simple family phrase or a rule to call a saved number can break the pressure of an impersonation attempt. Older relatives and teenagers can both benefit from knowing that a convincing photo, voice or video is not enough on its own. If a mistake has already happened, act promptly through the relevant bank, platform and official reporting channels rather than hoping the issue will resolve itself.
Questions people often ask
Can a video call be faked?
Technology can make media look convincing, so verify unexpected requests through another trusted channel.
Should I share an OTP with someone claiming to help?
No. Do not share passwords or one-time authentication codes.
What if the caller sounds exactly like a relative?
Hang up and call the relative using a number you already have or verify in person.
Should I click a link to check if it is genuine?
No. Use the organisation’s official website or known contact details instead.
Where can I find official reporting guidance?
Dubai Police is an authoritative source for current local reporting and safety information.
