Win-a-car text scam targets the UAE

ABU DHABI // Scammers are targetting UAE residents with text messages promising them a new Mercedes limousine. Mobile telephone users have received SMS messages from a Kenyan number purporting to be from a company called the Germany International Motor Dealers. "You have won a Mercedes LS-600 LIMOSINE [sic] worth $300,000. Call Mr James," the SMS reads. When The National called the number it was answered by a man calling himself Mr James, who said the winner had to send US$500 (Dh1,835) to claim the prize.

"Once I receive the funds by Western Union, the car will be shipped off. If you send the money off today, the car, in black, will be in Abu Dhabi tomorrow morning," the man said. The next day a false Western Union money transfer number was sent to the man by SMS. Ten minutes later, his mobile number was switched off and has stayed off. Nairobi police said they were aware of many such scams originating in Kenya.