Indian consulate in UAE issues warning over biometric fraud targeting nationals | India News
NEW DELHI: The consulate general of India in Dubai has warned Indian nationals in the UAE, particularly blue-collar workers, against handing over biometric data. The warning advised the workers against unauthorised agents claiming to help with visa regularisation, Emergency Certificates, Exit Permits, Emirates IDs or employment, after reports of fraud involving the misuse of fingerprints and facial scans.In an advisory issued on Monday, the consulate said it had received information about individuals and agents allegedly exploiting Indians seeking assistance with immigration and documentation procedures. The fraudsters reportedly ask victims to provide fingerprints or face scans, which can then be used without their knowledge to conduct financial transactions, open bank accounts or obtain loans and credit cards in their names.The consulate cautioned that such misuse could leave victims liable for financial obligations or transactions they did not authorise. In some cases, those affected could also face multiple fines, travel bans and even imprisonment.The advisory urged nationals not to share their passports, Emirates IDs, biometric data, including eye, face or fingerprint scans, or personal and financial credentials with unauthorised individuals or agencies under any circumstances.It also clarified that biometric information required for procedures such as exit permits, Emirates IDs or visa regularisation must be provided only at official UAE Government facilities or counters. People were specifically warned against submitting such information through private individuals, agents or third-party service providers claiming to be authorised by UAE authorities.The consulate also sought to dispel a potential source of confusion by stating that biometric information is not required for certain consular services.The advisory said the Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi “DO NOT require any fingerprint scan or face/eye scan from applicants for the issuance of a passport or emergency certificate.”It warned that any person or agent demanding such information while claiming to represent the Indian Embassy or consulate would be engaging in fraudulent activity and should not be entertained.
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Indians approached by unauthorised individuals seeking biometric data or Emirates IDs have been advised to contact the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra through the toll-free number 80046342, WhatsApp or SMS at 00971543090571, or email pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in to verify credentials or seek assistance.The consulate urged Indian nationals living in or visiting the UAE to exercise caution, independently verify the credentials of anyone offering immigration or documentation-related services, and report suspicious activity to the Indian consulate and the relevant UAE authorities.
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