Abu Dhabi Police has warned the public to be wary of online adverts offering pets for sale or adoption.
The force said fraudsters are preying on people looking for furry friends on social media.
While people offering animals sometimes ask for shipping and insurance money from abroad, criminals typically insist on the cash being transferred directly into their account or through local and international exchange agents licensed in their country.
Maj Gen Mohammed Al Rashidi, director of the criminal security sector at Abu Dhabi police, urged people to report such adverts.
He said fraudsters take advantage of the victims by offering goods or services at competitive prices.
These businesses are not registered in the UAE and use bogus phone numbers. Many such cases have been reported, Maj Gen Al Rashidi said.
Residents can file reports at their nearest police station, ring the 24-hour toll-free number 800 2626 or send a text message to 2828.
Complaints can also be made using the Abu Dhabi Police smartphone app.
How the UAE is becoming more pet-friendly - in pictures
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The Puppy Brunch offers the chance for dog owners to dine while also offering their canine companions brunch. Dog nibbles are available for Dh5. -
Pooches at Urban Bistro’s brunch in Dubai can be booked in for a nail trim, hair grooming and pet-sitting session. -
‘The Puppy Brunch has proved to be very popular,’ says Urban Bistro’s manager, Sinu Shaneran. ‘My CEO thought it was a good idea for people with dogs in Dubai who find it difficult to go out with their animals. The dogs are in a different seating area, so they don’t bother the normal walk-in crowds’ -
Customers at the Puppy Brunch at Urban Bistro in Dubai Media City. -
Dogs can enjoy the sunshine from the terrace, while their owners can indulge in your brunch guilt-free without having to leave their dog at home. -
Ahmed Al Muhairi, 6, with his pet chameleon at Yas Pet Festival in Abu Dhabi. -
A blue short-hair chihuahua named Kiwi during Yas Pet Festival in Abu Dhabi. -
Dogs in costumes are walked during Yas Pet Festival in Abu Dhabi. -
Romeo is a regular at Sun & Mediterranean restaurant on The Palm Jumeirah. -
Two years ago, Dubai opened its first cat cafe, Ailuromania, where visitors can enjoy a coffee in the company of more than a dozen felines.
