Dubai Police foil an attempt to entice a child via an e-platform

Somaiya Saad, Staff Report

The security authorities in Dubai have apprehended an individual on charges of enticing a child via an electronic platform that facilitates recreational activities among children.

The accused is reported to have exploited the child's family's travel, however he was promptly apprehended and transferred to the Public Prosecution to initiate legal proceedings.

The Security teams acted swiftly, located the child and moved to his location, according to Brigadier Saeed Al Hajri, Director of the Cybercrime Department at the Dubai Police.

Al Hajri emphasised the existence of a specialised team within the Dubai Police force, comprising two officers who have undergone advanced international training in the realm of combating cybercrimes.

This team collaborates with an international body dedicated to the protection of children from electronic exploitation.

Furthermore, Al Hajri underscored the pivotal role of families in monitoring children, with the objective of safeguarding them from the threats of blackmail and electronic abuse. This encompasses the prevention of bullying, threats, harassment, and enticement to disclose personal data or engage in immoral activities.

Saeed Al Hajri made an appeal to parents to supervise the electronic games and applications to which their children are exposed, with a view to ensuring their safety and security.

Furthermore, he cautioned against engaging with unreliable electronic stores, which may entice customers into fraudulent schemes.

In the course of his review of Article 19 of Federal Law No. 34 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes, it was established that any individual found to be in charge of a website or electronic account and who publishes content that does not comply with the media content standards issued by the relevant authorities shall be subject to a prison sentence of a maximum duration of one year, as well as a financial penalty ranging between Dhs30,000 and 300,000, or alternatively to one of these two penalties.

Al Hajri urged anyone subjected to blackmail to report any such threats to the authorities without delay through official channels.

He emphasised the significance of not acceding to the demands of cybercriminals, emphasising the importance of not sending money and resisting all forms of fraud and electronic blackmail.

He further advised individuals to proactively seek immediate assistance from the police, thus enabling the authorities to take the necessary measures.