Abu Dhabi Police Issue Warning on Cybercrimes Targeting Young Gamers

Abu Dhabi Police have warned parents about the growing threat of cybercrimes aimed at children who spend time on online gaming platforms. Criminals often spread malicious files disguised as game add-ons, cheats, or modifications, tricking players into downloading harmful software or visiting fraudulent websites.

 

One of the most dangerous risks is phishing, where fake websites mimic official gaming platforms or promise rare in-game rewards such as characters, outfits, or virtual currency. Young players are then persuaded to provide personal details or account information, leading to stolen identities, hacked accounts, or financial loss.

 

Lt. Col. Hamad Hiyab Al Ketbi, Head of the Child Exploitation Crimes Section at the Criminal Investigation Directorate, highlighted five common cybercrimes targeting children during gaming:

 

• Cyberbullying – abusive comments and online harassment.
• Cyber extortion – threats using personal photos or information.
• Online luring – predators grooming children for exploitation.
• Exposure to harmful content – extremist or violent material.
• Online fraud – fake links, scams, and demands for money.

 

Speaking on the Police’s Security and Safety programme, Al Ketbi stressed that the internet should not be denied to children, but safe use must be encouraged. He advised parents to teach children how to react to threats: report incidents, block offenders, and avoid engagement. Monitoring children’s gaming habits, setting limits and choosing age-appropriate platforms are also key preventive measures.

 

Warning Signs of Online Exploitation

Al Ketbi noted that sudden changes in behaviour could signal cybercrime involvement. Parents should look for withdrawal, irritability, secrecy about devices, fear of using phones, anxiety, sleep problems, or complaints about offensive messages. He warned that summer holidays, when online gaming activity peaks, increase children’s vulnerability to predators offering fake rewards.

 

Shared Responsibility in Protection

Ensuring children’s safety online requires cooperation between parents, teachers, and caregivers. Al Ketbi encouraged the use of parental controls, monitoring of apps and websites, and supervision of in-game communication features such as cameras and voice chat.

 

Role of the Child Exploitation Crimes Section

The Ministry of Interior’s Child Exploitation Crimes Section is dedicated to protecting children from physical, psychological, and sexual abuse. Its work includes:

 

• Handling reports through hotlines, websites, and mobile apps.
• Investigating cases and identifying offenders.
• Supporting victims with psychological and legal assistance.
• Raising awareness through community campaigns.
• Strengthening laws related to child protection.
• Coordinating with partners to expand child safety services.

 

Reporting Channels

• Hotline: 116111
• MOI Website: Child Protection Section
• “Hemayati” App: For immediate reporting

 

Authorities stressed that all child abuse cases must be reported without delay, with complete confidentiality guaranteed. Efforts are ongoing across the UAE to enhance systems that safeguard children in digital and physical spaces.

 

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