What Are the Penalties for Identity Theft and Online Scams in the UAE?

With the rapid growth of digital transactions and online interactions, cybercrimes such as identity theft and online scams have become a rising concern worldwide. In the UAE, the government has established strict laws under the Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree Law No. 5 of 2012, amended by Decree Law No. 34 of 2021) to protect individuals and businesses from digital fraud.

Identity Theft in the UAE

Identity theft occurs when someone unlawfully uses another person’s personal data—such as passport numbers, bank account details, or Emirates ID—for fraudulent activities. This can range from opening unauthorized accounts to committing crimes under another person’s name.

Penalties for Identity Theft:

Imprisonment and heavy fines ranging from AED 50,000 to AED 1,000,000.
Additional penalties if the stolen identity is used to commit further crimes such as fraud or defamation.
Deportation for expatriates convicted of such crimes.

Online Scams in the UAE

Online scams include phishing emails, fake investment offers, lottery frauds, and fraudulent e-commerce practices. These scams exploit digital platforms to trick victims into sharing personal or financial information.

Penalties for Online Scams:

Imprisonment of up to several years depending on the severity of the offense.
Fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1,000,000.
In cases involving financial fraud, perpetrators are also required to return the stolen funds.

Why Legal Guidance Is Essential

Cybercrime laws in the UAE are strict, and cases involving identity theft or online scams require specialized legal expertise. Victims often need guidance on how to:

File a criminal complaint with the authorities.
Present evidence in compliance with UAE law.
Pursue compensation for financial losses.
Protect their reputation and prevent future misuse of personal data.

How Saif Al Shamsi and TLG: The Legal Group Help

Saif Al Shamsi, founder of TLG: The Legal Group, has built a strong reputation in handling cybercrime and fraud-related cases in the UAE. With deep knowledge of the UAE’s Cybercrime Law, he and his team assist both individuals and businesses in tackling identity theft and online scams.

TLG provides end-to-end legal support, including filing complaints with the cybercrime department, representing clients in court, and ensuring that victims’ rights are protected. Their proactive approach helps victims not only seek justice but also strengthen their digital safety moving forward.

Conclusion

The UAE takes identity theft and online scams very seriously, with harsh penalties for offenders. While the law provides strong protection, victims need professional guidance to navigate the legal system effectively and ensure their rights are upheld. Consulting an experienced legal team is the most reliable way to secure justice and safeguard against the growing risks of cybercrime.