Cybersecurity experts at Group-IB have uncovered a sophisticated fraud scheme targeting residents across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). In this scam, criminals offer to pay government-issued utility bills, traffic fines, or legal charges at a 50% to 80% discount. Unsuspecting victims who take the bait are essentially participating in a money-laundering operation, as the fraudsters pay these official bills using compromised credit card data stolen from other individuals. Because the payments are processed through legitimate government portals, they often bypass standard bank security alerts, making the criminal activity appear like a routine transaction.

The operation is highly organized, relying on fake websites designed to mimic official government portals, which are often pushed to the top of search results through paid advertisements. By utilizing tactics like eSIM swaps and GPS spoofing, attackers gain full control over victims' banking accounts, allowing them to bypass 3D Secure authentication protocols undetected. To stay safe, authorities urge residents to avoid any third party claiming to offer discounted government services and to strictly use official, bookmarked websites or verified government mobile apps. Engaging with these fraudulent offers not only risks financial loss but could also implicate residents in serious criminal activity.