In light of E-LAW’s responsibility to promote societal awareness in the field of cybersecurity and educate citizens about the risks of social media platforms and their exploitation by some users for fraud and scams, we will prepare and publish a series of articles featuring real and tangible examples of scams.
Let’s start with this article focusing on electronic crimes in general, and specifically on scams and fraud through social media platforms.These crimes involve two parties: the perpetrator, commonly known as a scammer or fraudster, and the victim. The perpetrator often exploits the victims’ needs for money, treatment, marriage, overseas employment, or tourism. They manipulate their image, taking advantage of the victims’ lack of awareness of cybersecurity or the security of their personal accounts on social media platforms.
Examples of such crimes include the sale of inferior and counterfeit goods at prices much lower than their actual value. The products are presented under false pretenses, using the original brand name.
This also happens with the sale of clothing, mobile phones, cosmetics, accessories, and other goods, all sold at significantly lower prices than the market rate, trapping victims and unlawfully taking their money.
Recently, the sale and promotion of some unknown source medications on social media platforms as effective treatments for chronic diseases have become widespread. This is one of the most dangerous practices.
Victims must be cautious when purchasing these medications, as they may not meet medical specifications, lack proper authorization from regulatory authorities such as the Ministry of Health, or have not undergone any approval process. They are sold as medicines for chronic diseases, and unfortunately, some have discovered through experience that they are ineffective or even harmful to their health.
