“Extra caution shall be taken against gangs of fraudsters operating from outside the Kingdom who pose a grave threat to the security and safety of the citizens,” an official source at the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry’s warning came in the wake of the emergence of gangs who use the Internet and other means of communications to commit financial fraud by targeting unwitting victims.

The source noted that several Saudis have become vulnerable to attempts of fraud by gangs who try to convince them that they are heads or representatives of companies that are engaged in the business of gold and other precious metals. Such swindling acts normally take place through unknown agencies via the Internet or through phone calls originated from outside the Kingdom, the source pointed out.

“Taking into account of the potential threat of these types of cheating to the safety and security of citizens, in addition to reported cases of kidnapping and detention with an ulterior motive of blackmailing and bargaining, the ministry warns citizens against being victims of such fraudulent means,” the source told the Saudi Press Agency.

The source also asked citizens not to be lured by the false claims of these groups about earning huge profits.

The ministry warned all citizens not to have any dealings with such agencies, whether they are individuals or companies.

“Any commercial dealings outside the Kingdom should be made only after contacting with the Saudi diplomatic missions in those countries and after verifying the authenticity of the claims made by these companies or individuals. This is essential to guard themselves against any kidnapping or blackmailing,” the source added.