DUBAI: Indian nationals in the UAE have been warned against handing over biometric data or identity documents to private agents offering help with visa regularisation, exit permits, Emergency Certificates and jobs.
The Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates said fraudsters were approaching Indian residents, particularly blue-collar workers, while falsely claiming they could arrange immigration, documentation and employment-related services.
In an advisory issued on August 31, the consulate said such agents may ask victims to submit passports, Emirates IDs and biometric information, including facial, iris and fingerprint scans.
The data could then be misused to carry out financial transactions, open bank accounts or obtain loans and credit cards without the individual’s knowledge or consent, it said.
Such fraud can leave victims facing unauthorised debts and transactions, fines, travel restrictions and, in some cases, imprisonment.
The consulate said biometric procedures needed for visa regularisation, Emirates ID services or an Exit Permit — also known as an Outpass — must be completed only at official UAE government facilities and authorised counters.
It warned residents not to provide passport copies, Emirates ID details, bank information, one-time passwords or biometric scans to private individuals, unauthorised agents or third-party service providers claiming to represent UAE authorities.
The advisory also clarified that neither the Consulate General of India in Dubai nor the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi requires fingerprint, facial or iris scans for the issuance of passports or Emergency Certificates, also referred to as White Passports.
“Any individual or agent demanding such biometric data in the name of the Embassy is engaging in fraud and should not be entertained,” the advisory said.
Indians approached by agents seeking biometric data or Emirates ID details can contact the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra on the toll-free number 80046342, through WhatsApp or SMS at 00971543090571, or by email at dubai@mea.gov.in.
The consulate urged Indian residents and visitors to verify the credentials of anyone offering immigration-related assistance and to report suspicious activity to the Indian mission and the relevant UAE authorities
