All visas Suspended in Oman, ROP Warns Public of Fraud Related to Spread of COVID-19

The Royal Oman Police (ROP) announced last evening (18th of March) that all types of visas are suspended until further notice. Companies in Oman seeking to acquire visas are therefore currently no longer able to do so.

The ROP has also warned the public to beware of online scammers and fraudsters seeking to capitalize on the spread of COVID-19.

ROP tweeted: “Interpol has recorded a number of fraud cases linked to the spread of Coronavirus in a number of countries. ROP advises residents and citizens to stay vigilant and careful when buying medical equipment online during this period. As demand for face-masks and medical accessories has increased world-wide, many fraudsters have created fake online shops.”

The ROP asks consumers to adhere to the following advice when purchasing medical accessories or equipment online:

1. Conduct a verification check on the company or individual before purchasing to make sure seller is legitimate.
2. Check the website’s ‘http’ address. Fraudsters usually use addresses similar to real ones.
3. Check the product reviews to see if other customers have complained about their product orders not reaching them.
4. Be alarmed if the company asks you to transfer payment to a country other than the one in which the company’s base is located.
5. Contact your bank and ask them to cancel the transaction, if you suspect you have been a victim of fraud.
6. Be cautious of emails that have links to buy medical supplies or equipment, or to go through a medical test, as legitimate companies do not communicate with their customers in this manner.