New rules from the Central Bank aim to improve security and protect personal data
If you’re used to messaging your bank on WhatsApp, that’s about to change.
The Central Bank of the UAE has instructed all licensed financial institutions to stop using messaging apps like WhatsApp for customer communication, as part of a wider push to improve security and protect user data.
So what does this actually mean for you?
Going forward, banks, exchange houses and insurers will no longer contact you, or respond to you, via WhatsApp or similar platforms.
That includes things like customer service queries, sharing account details, or even sending verification codes. Instead, you’ll need to rely on official channels such as bank apps, SMS, email, or customer service hotlines.
Many banks have already started notifying customers about the change, so don’t be surprised if you see alerts or emails asking you to switch how you get in touch.
You might also like: This is when summer will officially begin in the UAE
The reason behind the move is mainly security. Authorities have flagged a number of risks linked to messaging platforms, including fraud, identity theft, account hacking and social engineering scams.
There are also concerns about where your data ends up, as messages sent through these apps can be stored or processed in the UAE, making regulation and protection more complicated.
Under the new rules, financial institutions are no longer allowed to request personal or banking details, process transactions, or send authentication codes through messaging apps.
Everything needs to happen within secure, regulated systems based in the UAE.
For everyday users, the key takeaway is to be more cautious.
If you receive a message on WhatsApp claiming to be from your bank, treat it as suspicious. Always double-check through official channels before sharing any information.
It may feel like a small inconvenience, but the goal is a safer, more secure banking experience across the UAE.
Follow Yalla for all the latest news
