Indian nationals in UAE warned against biometric data scams

The Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates has issued a warning to Indian nationals residing in the UAE against falling prey to scams involving individuals and agents deceitfully offering services such as visa regularisation, emergency certificates, exit permits, Emirates IDs and employment. The advisory highlights that a significant number of Indian individuals, especially blue-collar workers, have been targeted by these fraudulent operators.

Scammers request their victims to provide sensitive personal data such as passports, Emirates IDs and biometric information including facial, eye and fingerprint scans, claiming to assist with official procedures. The Consulate warns that this information could be misused by scammers to engage in financial transactions, open bank accounts or obtain loans and credit cards in the victims' names without their consent, potentially leading to financial liabilities or other legal repercussions.

The Indian mission urges its nationals to refrain from sharing their passport, Emirates ID, biometric data or personal and financial credentials with unauthorised individuals or agencies. Biometric scans for services like exit permits, Outpasses, Emirates IDs or visa regularisation must be provided exclusively at official UAE government facilities and counters.

The Consulate clarifies that it does not request fingerprint, facial or eye scans for passport or Emergency Certificate issuance. Anyone approached by unauthorised agents demanding biometric data or Emirates IDs should contact the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayta Kendra for verification and assistance, available through a toll-free number or via WhatsApp, SMS or email.

The Consulate urges Indian nationals in the UAE to verify the credentials of anyone offering such services and promptly report any suspicious activity to the Indian mission and UAE authorities.