Scam alert: Indian Consulate in Dubai warns of fake agents seeking biometric data

According to the advisory, fake agents ask victims to scan their face and fingerprints and then use the biometric data to carry out financial transactions. Representational pic

The Consulate General of India in Dubai on Monday issued an advisory cautioning Indian nationals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) against a rising number of scams being run by unauthorised agents and individuals in the name of Emergency Certificates, exit permits, Emirates ID and visa regularisation.

In a post on social media platform X, the Consulate said it had come to its notice that several Indian nationals in the UAE - particularly blue-collar workers - had fallen prey to persons falsely claiming that they could help with visa regularisation, a White Passport or Emergency Certificate, an Exit Permit or Outpass to leave the UAE, Emirates ID, or even employment.

According to the advisory, such agents ask victims to scan their face and fingerprints and then use the biometric data to carry out financial transactions, open bank accounts, or obtain loans and credit cards in the victims' names, without their knowledge or consent. Those affected can later find themselves liable for debts they never took and could also face fines, travel bans and, in some cases, even jail.

The Consulate has asked all Indian nationals to follow these precautions:

• Do not share passport, Emirates ID, biometric data (face/eye scan or fingerprint), or any personal or financial details with unauthorised persons or agencies under any circumstances.
• Biometric scans required for Outpass, Emirates ID, or visa regularisation must be given only at official UAE government facilities. They should never be handed over to private individuals, agents, or third-party operators claiming to be authorised by UAE authorities.
• The Consulate General of India, Dubai, and the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi, do not require any fingerprint or face/eye scan for issuing a passport or Emergency Certificate. Anyone demanding such biometrics in the name of the Indian Mission is committing fraud and should not be entertained.

Anyone approached by such an agent should immediately contact the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayta Kendra on toll-free number 80046342, WhatsApp/SMS 00971543090571, or email pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in for verification and assistance.

The Consulate has urged Indians residing in or visiting the UAE to verify the credentials of anyone offering such services and promptly report suspicious activity to the Consulate and the concerned UAE authorities.