Beware: Fake Careem Delivery Scam Draining Bank Accounts

Overview

A scam falsely branded as “Careem Delivery” is targeting UAE residents, particularly those selling items online. Victims have reported significant financial losses, with one individual losing Dh2,500 after clicking a fraudulent link. Authorities and Careem have issued warnings to raise awareness about this deceptive scheme.

How the Scam Works

The scam typically unfolds as follows:

1. Initial Contact: Scammers pose as buyers interested in purchasing items listed for sale online.
2. Fake Payment Offer: The “buyer” claims they will pay via the seller’s credit or debit card and arrange a “Careem Delivery” service to pick up the item.
3. Fraudulent Link: The seller is sent a link to enter their card details, supposedly to receive payment. Clicking the link and inputting information leads to unauthorized withdrawals from the victim’s bank account.

For example, one victim shared: “I clicked on the link, gave my details, and immediately got a message that Dh2,500 had been drained from my account.” Despite blocking the card and reporting the incident, recovery efforts were unsuccessful.

Careem’s Clarification

Careem has stated that it does not offer a service called “Careem Delivery.” Instead, it provides a Careem Box service for sending small items between specific locations or for a captain to purchase and deliver items from a store. Any communication claiming to be from “Careem Delivery” is fraudulent.

Scale of the Problem

Some victims have lost up to Dh200,000 in similar scams, highlighting the severity of these fraudulent activities. The scam exploits trust in familiar brand names and the convenience of online transactions, making it critical for residents to stay vigilant.

How to Protect Yourself

To avoid falling victim to this or similar scams, follow these guidelines:

• Never Share Sensitive Information: Do not disclose card numbers, OTPs, or other personal details over the phone or via unverified links.
• Verify Links: Avoid clicking on links from unknown sources. Check the URL for legitimacy before entering any information.
• Confirm Service Details: If a buyer mentions “Careem Delivery,” recognize it as a red flag, as no such service exists.
• Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately contact your bank if you suspect fraud and report the incident to local authorities.
• Use Secure Platforms: Conduct transactions through trusted platforms with built-in buyer and seller protections.

What to Do If You’re a Victim

If you’ve been scammed:

1. Block Your Card: Contact your bank immediately to block your card and prevent further unauthorized transactions.
2. File a Complaint: Report the incident to your bank and local authorities, such as the Dubai Police or Abu Dhabi Police, for investigation.
3. Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements for suspicious activity and enable transaction alerts for real-time updates.

Raising Awareness

UAE authorities continue to urge residents to exercise caution with online transactions. By staying informed and skeptical of unsolicited offers, you can protect yourself from falling prey to such scams. Share this information with friends and family to help prevent further losses.

For more details on staying safe online, visit the official websites of UAE authorities or Careem’s customer support page.