Bizarre: Beggars using WhatsApp in UAE to scam people

Beggars in UAE are using WhatsApp to target users by asking them to help them by transferring money.

Over the years WhatsApp has emerged as a popular instant messaging platform globally and more than a billion people use it on a daily basis. While the platform has helped individuals easily connect with friends and family, it also comes with its fair share of problems.

A recent report by a local website from UAE has pointed out that beggars are using WhatsApp to target users by asking them to help them by transferring money on their account.

Initially, a native woman highlighted the issue as she was compelled to go to the police and file a complaint after she started receiving several messages on WhastApp from different numbers, asking for financial assistance.

The message content included details of the addresses and account numbers where the money could be transferred to the unknown beggar.

Amir Mohammed Al Muhairi, Director General of Policing Operations at Abu Dhabi Police, warned people to stay sharp as social media has become a platform for various criminals and sympathisers to con people. He also said that the beggars start off with their agonising and heart-wrenching tales, which can sometimes trigger people to believe the story.

In addition, he strictly advised people to contact police officials in case of any such incident, and that people posing as beggars will be punished strictly.

Adding their thoughts on the issue, Abu Dhabi police officials said that there are some lazy and worthless people who are using WhatsApp as a platform to beg during the Holy month of Ramadan, expecting profound generosity.

However, these people can not only be beggars but also can be posers who are looking for more than a small amount of money. If you face such a scenario, the best ploy should be to ignore the text completely or inform the police.