The Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates has issued a warning to Indian nationals in the UAE about scammers posing as agents who offer help with visa regularisation, emergency certificates, exit permits, Emirates IDs, and job placements. The usual scam involves victims being asked to give the scammers their passport, Emirates ID, and biometric data such as scans of their face, eyes, and fingerprints, which they claim are needed to process official paperwork on their behalf
Warning To Indian Expats On Biometric Data Scams
Several Indian nationals, especially blue-collar workers, have fallen prey to these operators of fraud, the Consulate said. Officials say the stolen information can be used to open bank accounts or apply for loans and credit cards in the victim’s name, without the victim’s knowledge or consent. Victims could later find themselves held responsible for financial dues or transactions they never authorised, potentially facing fines, travel bans, or even imprisonment.
Don’t Share Biometric Details With Unknown Contacts
The Consulate has moved to clarify that it never requires biometric scans as part of the passport or Emergency Certificate application process. As the advisory put it, “Any individual or agent demanding such biometric data in the name of the Embassy is engaging in fraud and should not be entertained.”
Officials stressed that biometric data should only ever be submitted at recognised UAE government counters, for example, when applying for an Emirates ID, exit permit, Outpass, or visa regularisation.
Also Read: What Is e-OCI Card & How Can Indian Expats In UAE Apply For It?
Stay Alert To Suspicious Requests
Indian nationals who are approached by unauthorised individuals or agents demanding their biometric details or Emirates ID have been urged to get in touch with the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayta Kendra helpline for verification and support. The helpline can be reached toll-free at 80046342, via WhatsApp or SMS at 00971543090571, or by email at pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in.
The Consulate has asked all Indian nationals living in or visiting the UAE to check the credentials of anyone offering such services before sharing personal information and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the Indian mission or UAE authorities.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ Elena Uve from Elena Uve
FAQs
What are biometric data scams?
Biometric data scams involve attempts to obtain sensitive identifying information such as fingerprints, facial images or other biometric details through fraudulent requests.
How can residents protect themselves?
Residents should verify unexpected requests through official channels and avoid sharing sensitive information with unknown contacts.
