Oman Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide
Common scams in Oman including cyber fraud, investment schemes, and tourist-area overcharging, with official reporting channels via the Royal Oman Police.
Emergency number: 9999 (emergency), 80077444 (cyber fraud hotline) — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Oman has seen cybercrime increase markedly in recent years, with the Royal Oman Police reporting a 50% rise in cyber fraud cases. AI-powered deepfake scams, investment fraud, and phishing targeting bank accounts have become increasingly common. The Royal Oman Police operates a dedicated cyber fraud hotline (80077444) and the e-crime reporting platform. Tourists visiting Muscat and Oman's natural heritage sites may also encounter overcharging tour operators and unofficial guides.
Common scams
- Investment and crypto fraud promoted via social media
- AI and deepfake-assisted impersonation scams
- Phishing targeting Omani bank accounts (Bank Muscat, National Bank of Oman)
- Online shopping fraud and non-delivery
Tourist-specific scams
- Unofficial guides at Muscat and Nizwa heritage sites
- Overcharging taxi and transport operators
- Fake or substandard souvenir goods
Online shopping scams
- Phishing emails and SMS impersonating Omani banks
- Fake e-commerce sites targeting residents
- AI deepfake voice and video calls impersonating officials or family members
Job scams
- Fake overseas employment offers requiring upfront visa fees
- Fraudulent domestic worker recruitment agencies
Romance scams
- Dating-app relationships escalating to financial or investment requests
- Social media romance fraud from overseas contacts
Investment scams
- Fake forex and crypto platforms advertising on social media
- Ponzi-style investment schemes disguised as legitimate businesses
How to report a scam here
- If money was just transferred, contact your bank immediately to attempt a freeze
- Call the Royal Oman Police cyber fraud hotline 80077444 (toll-free) at any time
- File a formal report at the nearest Royal Oman Police station or via rop.gov.om
- Preserve all evidence — screenshots, chat logs, transaction references — before reporting
Local reporting & protection links
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Bank & payment guidance
Contact your bank using the official number on your card immediately. The Royal Oman Police toll-free number 80077444 is the fastest route to flag cyber fraud — call it alongside your bank if money has moved.
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot all messages, profiles, websites and payment pages
- Save transaction references, account numbers and crypto wallet addresses
- Keep emails with full headers where possible
- Note dates, times, names and phone numbers used
Frequently asked questions
What is the Royal Oman Police cyber fraud hotline?
The Royal Oman Police operates a dedicated toll-free cyber fraud hotline at 80077444. It is available around the clock for reporting cyber extortion, online fraud, and other digital crimes, and can liaise with banks to help freeze fraudulent transfers.
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance