Three people who have different jobs were arrested by Dubai police, United Arab Emirates (UAE) for offering fake International English Language Testing System (IELTS) certificates on social media for 10,000 UAE dirhams or around Rp. 42,096,594.
Dubai police said victims would be asked to send 5,000 UAE dirhams in advance to fraudsters, who would then order the original test and ask buyers to take the exam.
The remaining 5,000 UAE dirhams will be paid after the test, after which they receive certificates that turn out to be fake certificates.
"The scammers pushed the victim to take the exam with a promise to pass the exam, even though the English level of the victim was too low," said Major General Jamal Al Jallaf, director of the Dubai Police Criminal Investigation Department.
"After two days of testing, they will send text messages to congratulate those who have passed and to transfer the remaining money."
Later, they will find that they failed in taking the exam and the certificate they received was fake.
Major General Al Jallaf said the fraudsters made a profit from the victims who felt too embarrassed to report it.
"The problem is, the victims avoid telling police about fraud and some deny they pay money, feel embarrassed and also fear of thinking they might be involved in illegal acts," Major General Al Jallaf said.
However, one person who has lost 10,000 UAE dirhams dared to appear and report the fraud to Dubai Police.
The police set traps and arrested three suspects, whose citizenship and age were not disclosed.
"The scammers manipulate victims who want to pass the test without studying to use certificates to get a job or immigration," explained Major General Al Jallaf.
Furthermore, he urged citizens to report any criminal behavior through the e-crime platform, offering their guarantees there will be no blame for the crime.
"What matters is the crackdown on crime, providing a safe and secure society. Any tip can prevent a series of crimes," he added.
Meanwhile, the British Council, which conducted the IELTS exam, issued a public notice on its website about fraud warnings.
"Please note, there is a website that pretends to be an IELTS British Council registration site. They are not related to us and we are not responsible for the content on the site," the warning read.
It also advises people to make sure they use the original board website to order tests, and before entering any personal details.
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