Police in UAE warn against playing 'Mariam Game'

Some say that is a program laden with 'sorcery' whilst some believe that it is a simple spyware in video game format.

Sharjah Police have warned residents against playing the controversial 'Mariam' game, which is being used to steal people's personal information.
They have called on the community to be vigilant and not to disclose any private or personal information through the interactive online game 'Mariam' which has started to spread among the residents as of late.
The dangerous game has highlighted the dangers of social media, according to experts. Some say that is a program laden with 'sorcery' whilst some believe that it is a simple spyware in video game format.
Ban 'Mariam' game, say social experts in UAE
The game revolves around the loss of the child and the players must help the child. To this end, The game asks the user personal questions like: 'Where is your home located'; 'What's your Facebook account' and so on. These questions could be a way to hack the player's device. The player can only advance to the next level of the game after answering the questions.
Colonel Obaid Saleh Hassan, an IT specialist, said that the data and information acquired through the game may be exploited by other parties, who are involved in phishing, theft and extortion. Some experts have also pointed out that it pushes the child or teenager to hurt oneself - reminiscent of the Blue Whale game.
He called on parents to watch on their children and to fill their leisure time with good work and positive activities.

• UAE
• Sharjah