Emirates NBD has issued a consumer alert warning of a sharp rise in holiday-related scams during December, a peak period for travel bookings and online shopping. The bank noted that fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, including fake flight deals, fraudulent accommodation offers, and deceptive social media ads, to exploit the seasonal surge in spending. These scams often lure victims through unofficial payment links or cloned websites that mimic legitimate brands.
Among the most common threats are fake travel promotions circulated via social media and messaging apps, which direct users to malicious sites where financial and personal data can be stolen. Emirates NBD also highlighted the risk of fraudulent online stores offering heavily discounted electronics, perfumes, and luxury goods, only to disappear after receiving payment. Another growing tactic involves delivery-related scams, where victims receive texts or emails claiming a parcel is delayed and urging urgent payment.
To protect themselves, customers are advised to book travel only through official airline and hotel websites, avoid payment links sent via WhatsApp or social media, and carefully inspect website URLs for spelling errors or unusual formatting. Shoppers should purchase from trusted retailers, verify seller reviews, and confirm the legitimacy of unfamiliar e‑commerce sites before entering payment details.
Emirates NBD emphasized the importance of pausing and questioning unexpected messages: “Was I expecting this, and is the sender truly who they claim to be?” If in doubt, the bank’s guidance is clear: don’t click, don’t share, and don’t pay. These warnings are part of the bank’s ongoing effort to enhance customer awareness and ensure a safer holiday season amid rising digital fraud.
