Scam alert: Police warn residents about beggars on WhatsApp

Residents have been warned not to be deceived by "beggars" who use emails, WhatsApp and other social media platforms to illegally seek help.

With the Holy Month of Ramadan just round the corner, the Abu Dhabi Police said there's an uptick in such activity online. 

They have revealed how fraudsters are now using online to evoke sympathy among the public with fabricated stories of people needing medical help, financial aid for orphans, or funds for building schools or mosques.    

Residents have been advised not to engage in online conversations with unverified people or accounts, and to always contribute to official charities in the country. 

They have also been urged to report such online pleas for help to the authorities so swift action can be taken.

The authority added that those caught begging will face three months in jail or a fine of not less than AED 5,000 or both.

They added that the penalty for "organised begging" is a six-month jail term and a fine of not less than AED 100,000.