7 arrested in Sharjah for using fake apps to steal money

Seven people have been arrested in Sharjah for defrauding people by gaining access to their bank accounts through remote control apps.

Sharjah Police said the men impersonated "official government positions" and tricked victims into downloading the apps that gave scamsters access to their phones and bank accounts. Once they gained control, the criminals transferred money to other accounts.

Brigadier Dr. Khalifa Balhai, Director of the Criminal Investigations and Research Directorate, said they were alerted about the scam by a victim who lost money after being tricked to download the apps by a person claiming to be a government official.

An investigation was launched, and a team from Sharjah Police traced the money to another account within the UAE.

Upon detention and interrogation, the account holder confessed he was unaware of the scam and that he had opened the bank account in return for commission.

Investigations revealed that the criminals used bank accounts of unsuspecting victims to channel the illegal funds, without leaving a money trail. 

During inspection of the premises used by the gang members, officials found and seized several bank cards, checkbooks of different banks, passports, as well as several electronic devices including phones, tablets, storage units and computers. They also found official documents, receipts and financial books that impersonated several companies.

All seven men have been referred to the Public Prosecution.

The authority reminded the public to be extra cautious when dealing with online transactions and to avoid sharing personal or banking data with any entity unless adequate verification checks are conducted.