UAE Urges Users to Protect Sensitive Data From Social Media Fraud
A new warning from the UAE Cybersecurity Council highlights how personal information shared online can fuel fraud, identity theft and broader cyber risks for individuals, families and organisations
The UAE Cybersecurity Council has warned the public against publishing or sharing sensitive personal information on social media, saying such behavior can expose users to fraud, privacy violations, and identity theft. According to WAM, the Council said even seemingly minor details shared online can be exploited by attackers to design targeted scams and other fraudulent schemes.
WAM reported that the Council urged users not to disclose home or work addresses, personal phone numbers, travel plans, or private family images on social platforms. It said oversharing significantly raises the risk of cyber fraud and theft, with around 40% of users reporting privacy violations linked to excessive sharing of personal details online.
The Council also called for stronger digital hygiene, advising users to keep software updated, use strong passwords, enable multi-factor authentication, and restrict access to cameras, microphones and location services on mobile devices. These measures, it said, are essential as fraudsters increasingly rely on advanced technologies to obtain financial and personal information.
According to WAM, the warning forms part of the Cyber Pulse awareness campaign, launched for the second consecutive year to strengthen cybersecurity culture and digital awareness across the UAE. The initiative supports broader efforts to build a more secure digital environment for citizens, residents and businesses as digital transformation accelerates.
