The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) in the United Arab Emirates has issued a stern warning to investors regarding the use of unauthorized trading applications. These apps, often operated by unlicensed entities, pose significant legal risks, including potential violations of anti-money laundering (AML) laws. The SCA emphasized that investors must exercise caution to avoid legal liabilities associated with such platforms. The authority highlighted five critical red flags to identify illegitimate trading apps: absence from official regulatory websites, promises of high returns with minimal risk, lack of transparent company details, operation without proper UAE licensing, and requests for funds to personal accounts instead of corporate ones. Investors are advised to use only verified platforms, confirm licensing, and report suspicious activities promptly to safeguard their investments and comply with UAE regulations.