It has come to the attention of the U.S. Mission in the UAE that fraudsters masquerading as embassy/consulate officials are making calls to the general public from the number 02-414-2200 and asking them to deposit money in different accounts for consular services. The general public is hereby informed that the Embassy/Consulate does not make such calls. The Embassy is also in touch with local authorities to address these fraud calls being made.
Tips to protect yourself – and your money – from scams:
- Generally, never send money to someone overseas if you have not met in person – especially if you have met only online.
- Do not disclose personal details over the phone or online – even in your social media.
- Refer someone claiming to be a U.S. citizen in distress overseas to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Contact Overseas Citizens Services at 888-407-4747 if someone claiming to be a U.S. citizen overseas says the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate will not help. We can offer tips for verifying if the situation is legitimate or a scam.
- Consider sending money to a person claiming to be a U.S. citizen through the Department of State’s “OCS Trust” program, which requires the recipient to show a photo ID to collect the money. Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate nearest the person for more information.
- File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and the FBI at ic3.gov if you have been the victim of a scam.
- Report scams affecting seniors to the U.S. Senate’s Committee on Aging Fraud Hotline at 1-855-303-9470 and read Fighting Fraud: U.S. Senate Aging Committee Identifies Top 10 Scams Targeting Our Nation’s Seniors.
- Before traveling abroad, research your destination.
- Be aware that something that seems too good to be true usually is.