In a Stay Secure survey conducted by Visa, Dubai Police and Dubai Economy, four out of ten individuals have experienced online fraud attempts in the past year.
Due to the pandemic, in an effort to minimise the amount of contact between individuals in order to reduce the spread of the virus, digital services were preferred.
According to the study, the use of cash in the UAE is reducing, with cash on delivery reduced by 75% and the use of online payments increased by around 98%.
40% of consumers have mentioned that they are less likely to use cash with 45% more likely to use contactless payment methods in the future.
60% of individuals prefer contactless payments due to convenience with 59% prefer it for speed. 46% of consumers prefer it as the consumer has control during the transaction and 56% avoid contact with other people. Additionally, 48% prefer contactless payment as it is an innovative way to pay.
With the use of biometrically-verified payments, 67% prefer how secure it is with 60% appreciating the control and ease it provides without having to remember passwords.
Individuals with knowledge on the technology protecting consumers are at 52% and trust using digital methods with individuals that do not have adequate knowledge which is at 47%, unsure due to the misuse of lost or stolen contactless cards.
39% of consumers have experienced an online fraud attempt, with experiences with phishing, credit card fraud and receiving counterfeit goods.
Brigadier Jamal Salem Al Jalaf, Director of Criminal Investigation Department in Dubai Police said, "As people spend more and more time online – including many for the first time, fraudsters are using this as an opportunity to exploit consumers fears and lack of knowledge. We strongly believe that government authorities, the private sector and local communities all have an important role to play in raising awareness among UAE residents. Dubai Police is delighted to once again partner with Visa and Dubai Economy on the Stay Secure initiative, which will help strengthen our efforts to reduce online fraud and cybercrime in the UAE and ensure a safe and secure digital economy for everyone."
The survey is in line with Visa's sixth annual Stay Secure campaign for safe digital payment practices and for consumers on how they can protect personal data which enjoying the benefits and convenience of eCommerce and contactless payments.