MUSCAT: The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has issued a stern warning to residents regarding fraudulent advertisements circulating on social media. These misleading ads falsely claim to provide housemaids at highly attractive prices, luring unsuspecting individuals into scams. Authorities have urged the public to exercise extreme caution and verify the legitimacy of such offers before engaging in any financial transactions. The police emphasized that these fraudulent schemes often exploit people’s trust and take advantage of the demand for domestic workers in Oman.
According to the ROP, these deceptive advertisements often use unverified social media accounts to reach a wide audience. Scammers typically request upfront payments, promising quick processing and legal documentation, only for victims to later discover that the maids do not exist, or the agencies involved are operating illegally. Many victims realize they have been deceived only after transferring funds, leaving them without legal recourse. The police have urged social media users to report such suspicious ads to prevent others from falling prey to these schemes.
Authorities have further advised the public to rely only on licensed and registered recruitment agencies for hiring domestic workers. The Ministry of Labour has a list of approved agencies that comply with legal requirements, ensuring that both employers and workers are protected under Omani labor laws. Engaging with unregistered service providers not only puts individuals at financial risk but also contributes to illegal employment practices that can have legal consequences for those involved.
The ROP reaffirmed its commitment to combating fraudulent activities and protecting the public from cybercrime. Law enforcement agencies are actively monitoring online platforms to identify and take action against individuals or groups promoting fraudulent advertisements. Officials have encouraged residents to stay vigilant, avoid making hasty financial decisions, and report any suspicious activity through official police channels. By working together, the authorities and the community can help curb online scams and safeguard consumers from financial loss.
