Hi FM

Listen
On Air Rachel Chew Labrinth, Tinie Tempah - Earthquake

ROP warns of online scams using fake officer profiles

Tuesday, 2 September 2025 20:43

Muscat – Royal Oman Police (ROP) has urged the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent calls, messages, and fake websites designed to steal personal and banking information. In a statement, the ROP said cybercriminals are increasingly impersonating security personnel and using official logos to gain victims’ trust. ‘Do not share your personal or banking details […]

Muscat – Royal Oman Police (ROP) has urged the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent calls, messages, and fake websites designed to steal personal and banking information.

In a statement, the ROP said cybercriminals are increasingly impersonating security personnel and using official logos to gain victims’ trust. ‘Do not share your personal or banking details with unknown individuals or organisations to avoid falling victim to cyber fraud,’ the statement advised.

Scammers have been misusing apps such as Google Meet and IMO, often displaying the ROP logo or photos of officers in uniform to appear legitimate.

Laila, a Muscat resident, recalled receiving a Google Meet request from a number showing a uniformed officer’s photo. “I was surprised, but I knew something was wrong and ignored the call,” she said.

Ali Khan from Seeb shared a similar encounter on IMO. “The profile photo looked official, but the request felt suspicious. I disconnected immediately,” he said.

ROP’s Directorate General of Inquiries and Criminal Investigations confirmed receiving multiple complaints about a fake website falsely claiming to handle complaints and reports. Authorities stressed that the official National Platform for Suggestions, Complaints, and Reports (Tajawob) never asks for personal or banking information and charges no fees. ‘Any communication requesting such details is fraudulent,’ the ROP said.

According to the ROP, cyber fraud cases in Oman rose by 35% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year.

The ROP called for stronger collaboration between law enforcement and the public to boost cybersecurity awareness and preventive measures. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately by calling the ROP hotline at 80077444.

Share

More from Muscat Daily Oman News

  • MHT signs deal to host Ironman races for five years 

    Muscat – Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has signed a five-year partnership with the Ironman Group to host world championship events and endurance races starting in 2026. The agreement was announced in Muscat under the patronage of H E Salem bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism. Under the deal, Oman’s promotional […]

  • Sur master plan to shape growth for next two decades

    Sur – South Sharqiyah is working on a structural master plan to guide Sur’s urban, economic, social and environmental development through 2045. The plan aims to transform the coastal city into a vibrant hub that balances modernity with authenticity, preserves cultural heritage and builds resilience to climate challenges. Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning is […]

  • Oman’s seas host 18 unique species of seaweed: Study

    Muscat – A study by Sultan Qaboos University has identified more than 400 species of seaweed in Omani waters, including 18 unique to the country. Most are found in waters off Dhofar. Researchers highlighted the potential of seaweed for commercial use, noting that it requires neither fresh water nor arable land. The study monitored growth […]

  • Oman reaffirms strong partnership with UNICEF, prioritises child welfare in Global Agenda

    Muscat – Oman has renewed its unwavering commitment to advancing child welfare and strengthening global partnerships, placing children at the centre of its development agenda. Speaking at the opening session of UNICEF’s Executive Board, the sultanate underlined the importance of continued collaboration with the UN agency to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and […]

  • Four arrested in Dhofar for poaching Arabian Gazelle

    Muscat – The Environment Authority of Oman announced the arrest of four Omani citizens in Dhofar Governorate for hunting an Arabian gazelle. The arrests were carried out by wildlife rangers from the Environment Authority in coordination with the Royal Oman Police. The individuals have been referred to the relevant authorities for legal proceedings. The Environment […]

  • Uzbekistan grants visa-free entry to Omani citizens

    Muscat – The Foreign Ministry has announced that the Republic of Uzbekistan will exempt citizens of the Sultanate of Oman from entry visa requirements, effective June 1, 2025. Under this decision, Omani citizens will be permitted to stay in Uzbekistan for up to 30 days from the date of entry without the need for a […]

FM
Online
App