Prevention is Better than Cure: A True Tale…
Sharing your mobile number or Absher account details with anyone—whether known or unknown—can lead to serious consequences if the recipient’s intentions are dubious or deceptive. Protecting your credentials is essential to avoid becoming entangled in legal & financial troubles.
One such incident unfolded in Riyadh over a year ago. A worker approached his sponsor’s office to request an exit/re-entry visa. The office staff asked for the worker’s mobile phone & his Absher account login promising to process the visa immediately. Trusting this assurance, the worker handed over his credentials, unaware of the storm awaiting him.
Shortly after, the worker received a shocking message demanding SAR 3lakhs (around INR. 66 lakhs) as repayment of an alleged loan. Failure to comply within a week would result in severe consequences, including a travel ban, frozen bank accounts and other legal actions. The worker, blindsided and distraught, realized that a fake promissory note had been created in his name, falsely indicating his liability to pay the office staff.
The fraudulent note became the basis for legal claims against him, restricting his movements and freezing his finances. With no resolution in sight, he sought help from a social worker, who guided him to a competent lawyer in Riyadh.
The lawyer challenged the false claims in the Saudi general court emphasizing the lack of evidence supporting the accusations. The saying-“Absence of Evidence is the Evidence of Absence” came true in his case.
The court, upon reviewing the case, ruled in favor of the worker. The office staff’s inability to substantiate his claims led to the dismissal of the case. After over a year of legal battles, the worker was finally freed from the ordeal, and the strong faith in the country’s justice system was once again restored.
This case underscores two key critical lessons:
1) Never share sensitive information like Absher credentials or personal details even with seemingly trustworthy individuals.
2) Seek legal recourse immediately in case of fraudulent claims as the Saudi Arabian judicial system upholds justice and fairness.
By staying vigilant and protecting your information, you can prevent unnecessary legal entanglements and mental distress.
(✍🏽Dr. & Adv.PAHPadubidri)