As the Holy Month of Ramadan is underway, a lot of people take to charity and follow the spirit of giving.
However, Dubai Police have warned public to remain wary of some people who may try to take advantage people's religious and moral values, to collect money illegally.
Dubai Police warn people that as movement is still partially restricted in the Emirate, beggars may use social media or can try to pursue you to give them money as they hang around supermarket car parks. Dubai Police also advise people to not show any empathy to the beggars, and instead call authorities at 901 or report them through the Police Eye app. People can visit the Dubai Police website to report online begging scams.
Colonel Ali Salem, director of the Anti-Infiltrators Department at Dubai Police, said, "I am aware of cases where beggars pretended to be disabled or sick, or used children to draw sympathy from people." Colonel Salem further added that "Members of society can contribute positively and help curb begging by donating to charity organisations who ensure the money reaches those in need."