In a recent Abu Dhabi court case, the persistent threat of phone-based financial scams was underscored as a convicted scammer was ordered to repay Dh24,500 stolen from a victim’s bank account.
Documents from the Abu Dhabi Family, Civil and Administrative Cases Court reveal that the fraudster must also compensate the victim for emotional distress and cover an annual interest.
Prior to this civil ruling, the defendant was criminally convicted, fined Dh20,000 for fraud and unlawful money possession. The civil court’s November 11, 2025, decision ensures the victim’s full recovery of the stolen funds.
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Persuasive deception
Court records show the victim received a call from someone posing as a bank representative. With a convincing tone, the caller claimed the victim’s bank card needed “urgent verification” to avoid suspension.
Trusting the caller was legitimate, the victim provided his bank card details and OTP, leading to a swift loss of Dh24,500 from his account.
Upon realizing the scam, the victim filed a police report. Investigators traced the fraudulent transactions back to the defendant, who had used the stolen details to transfer money to his account. The defendant faced charges for fraud, electronic deception, and unlawful fund possession.
A criminal court declared the accused guilty, imposing a Dh20,000 fine. Despite this, the victim sought further action through a civil lawsuit, requesting:
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Reimbursement of Dh24,500
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Dh25,000 in damages for financial and emotional distress
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5% annual interest from the claim date until payment completion
Court’s findings and decision
The civil court found the case straightforward given the established criminal guilt, confirming the funds were illegally obtained.
The court ruled the victim should receive the stolen amount in full, applying a 3% annual interest for delayed repayment.
Regarding damages, the judge noted the incident caused emotional suffering, including anxiety and stress. With no proof of additional losses, the court awarded Dh3,000 for moral damages, deeming it fair. The defendant was also ordered to pay all court fees and legal costs.
UAE authorities continually advise residents against sharing OTPs, PINs, or card details over the phone, urging direct contact with banks for suspicious calls. Banks and regulators, like the UAE Central Bank, have intensified efforts to warn against “phishing” and online scams.
