Title: Safeguarding Against Scams: A Filipina Expat’s Call to Action for OFWs in Dubai
Introduction
In the bustling metropolis of Dubai, where dreams are pursued and fortunes are made, a darker reality lurks beneath the surface—scammers targeting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). As these fraudulent schemes become increasingly sophisticated, Irene Corpuz, a seasoned cybersecurity expert and Filipina expat, is sounding the alarm. With her extensive experience in cyber risk management, Corpuz urges OFWs to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their hard-earned money.
The Rising Threat of Scams
Corpuz highlights the alarming frequency with which scams are perpetrated against OFWs in the UAE. “At the rate scammers are becoming more organized, the chances of falling victim to their ploys are ever-present,” she warns. The reality is stark: it’s not a question of if one will be scammed, but rather when. This sentiment underscores the importance of resilience—how quickly one can recover after falling victim to such schemes.
Common Scams Targeting OFWs
Among the most prevalent scams targeting OFWs are fraudulent Facebook pages that offer loans. These pages often request an upfront “processing fee” and additional funds to release the promised loan. To lend an air of legitimacy, these pages feature comments from supposed past clients who have successfully availed of loans, only for the page to be deactivated once the scam is executed.
Another common tactic involves fake job offers disseminated through WhatsApp. Scammers promise lucrative part-time positions but require payment for processing fees. Additionally, phone calls from individuals impersonating police or bank officials are rampant, with these scammers demanding sensitive personal information to siphon off funds. Corpuz also notes the rise of investment scams, where fraudsters claim to have insider knowledge about lucrative stock market opportunities.
The Seriousness of Financial Fraud
“Financial fraud and scams are serious issues that continue to ensnare victims, despite widespread awareness campaigns,” Corpuz states. Various institutions, including banks and cybersecurity professionals, have issued warnings, yet the scams persist. In the UAE, scam calls impersonating reputable organizations like Etisalat and local police are common, often accompanied by threats to instill fear in victims.
Corpuz emphasizes that smishing—SMS phishing—remains one of the most common consumer scams. With the advent of artificial intelligence, phishing emails have become more sophisticated, often appearing to come from legitimate sources without the telltale grammar or spelling errors of the past.
UAE’s Cybersecurity Landscape
Despite the rising tide of scams, Corpuz reassures that the UAE’s cybersecurity sector is resilient. The country has implemented robust cybersecurity policies, regulations, and laws that prepare organizations to respond effectively to security incidents. This proactive approach helps mitigate the impact of scams and fraud on the community.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Cybersecurity
Beyond her advocacy against scams, Corpuz represents a beacon of hope for women in the tech industry. Having moved to the UAE 17 years ago, she faced significant challenges in a male-dominated field. “The region’s IT industry wasn’t exactly welcoming to women,” she recalls, prompting her to pivot her career towards consulting and project management.
In 2013, an opportunity in cybersecurity transformed her career trajectory. By 2018, she co-founded the Women in Cyber Security Middle East (WiCSME), a group dedicated to empowering women in the field. “I’m passionate about tackling the underrepresentation of women in cybersecurity,” she asserts, noting that the percentage of women in the field has increased from 11% in 2012 to 25% today.
Conclusion
Irene Corpuz’s journey from a cautious expat to a leader in cybersecurity serves as an inspiration for many. Her call to action for OFWs in Dubai is clear: stay vigilant against scams, educate yourself about the tactics employed by fraudsters, and foster resilience in the face of adversity. As the UAE continues to champion gender equality and empower women in technology, Corpuz stands at the forefront, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. In a world where scams are an unfortunate reality, knowledge and vigilance remain the best defenses against financial fraud.