Indian Embassy Issues Urgent Biometric Scam Alert In UAE
The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi has issued a serious advisory on August 24, 2026, warning Indian citizens in the UAE, particularly blue-collar workers, against biometric scams involving unauthorized agents. These individuals falsely claim to provide government-related services, including visa regularization, exit permits, outpasses, Emirates ID processing, and emergency travel documents, to collect sensitive personal documents and biometric data.
- Embassy issues serious scam warning
- Fraudsters target blue-collar workers
- Biometric data stolen for financial fraud
How The Scam Works
The Embassy reports that fraudsters are using these pretexts to perform face scans, eye scans, and fingerprint collections. This biometric data can be misused to conduct unauthorized financial transactions, open bank accounts, apply for loans, or issue credit cards in the victims' names. Such fraudulent activities can lead to unpaid liabilities, fines, legal proceedings, travel bans, and potential incarceration for the victims.Protect Your Personal Data
Indian nationals are strongly advised not to share their passport details, Emirates ID, biometric data, or financial credentials with any unauthorized individuals or agencies. The Embassy clarified that it does not require fingerprint, face, or eye scans for the issuance of a passport or an Emergency Certificate. Any request for such data in the name of the Embassy should be treated as a major fraud warning.Official Channels And Verification
Biometric procedures for official documents, such as exit permits or Emirates ID, must only be completed at designated UAE government facilities or authorized counters. Citizens are urged to verify the legitimacy of any service provider through official channels before proceeding. Blue-collar workers, who may face language barriers or urgent needs regarding employment and residency status, are specifically identified as primary targets for these scams.For verification or assistance, individuals should contact the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra (PBSK) via the toll-free number 80046342, via WhatsApp or SMS at +971 54 309 0571, or via email at [email protected]. Those who have already provided personal or biometric data to suspicious parties are encouraged to reach out to these official channels for guidance.