A new social media trend that challenges children to set "evil dolls" on fire to mimic horror scenes, can turn highly dangerous, warned Dubai Police, adding that it could lead to "fires, injuries and even fatalities".
The challenge, titled "burning evil dolls", encourages children to light up the dolls whether indoors or outdoors.
Dubai Police warned that the dolls are made from highly flammable materials like plastic and synthetic material that release toxic fumes.
The authority urged parents to monitor their children’s online activity and talk to them about the dangers of copying unsafe challenges that are designed to attract views.
They also reminded the public that sharing or reposting similar dangerous videos is a legal offence that could lead to prosecution for endangering lives or property.
The Dubai Police encouraged reporting any content that promotes or encourages such behaviour through social media or chat groups.
The warning is placed in line with the police's Cybersecurity Awareness Month campaign.
#News | Dubai Police Warn Public Against Dangerous “Burning Evil Dolls” Trend
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) October 19, 2025
Details: https://t.co/Se6e6f2mvd #CyberSecurityAwarenessMonth#StaySafeOnline
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