Unlawful Activities On The Internet Under UAE Law

There was a time when the Internet was a wondrous place with infinite potential for learning, connecting with others, and having fun. However, as the world evolved, cybercrime increased, making the Internet a more dangerous environment for everyone of all ages, from youngsters to the elderly.

The United Arab Emirates, like many other nations, has taken steps to ensure its residents’ safety when using the internet. Law No. 5 of 2012, often known as The Cyber Crime Law, was enacted in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to regulate several aspects of people’s interactions with digital media. In 2018, amendments were enacted under Federal Law No. 2 of 2018.

People in the United Arab Emirates, home to a sizeable expat population, frequently ask if their online activities comply with local law. For violations of Law No. 5 of 2012 and its amendments, sentences have been handed down on occasion.

Understanding that moral and free speech standards in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) may differ from those in one’s native country is crucial for anyone considering relocating there. Offensive messages to anyone, regardless of your relationship to them, will not go unanswered.

To avoid legal trouble in the United Arab Emirates, steer clear of these topics whether using the web, apps, or other digital tools:

1. public or private, insulting someone through the use of technology carries a fine of AED 250,000 to AED 500,000 and/or five years in prison.
2. It is strictly forbidden to read someone else’s personal correspondence without their permission. Penalties for breaking privacy rules can include jail time and fines of up to AED 300,000.
3. it is illegal to give someone else access to their private information that you have gained through illegal means.
4. Taking pictures of people without their permission in the UAE or making copies or saving digital shots of them without their knowledge is illegal. Offenders can be fined up to AED 500,000 and/or sent to jail for a minimum of six months.
5. The illegal eavesdropping, interception, recording, or disclosure of private conversations in the UAE is strictly prohibited and may result in legal consequences.
6. Without considering the sentiments and privacy of people affected, it is illegal to share news about terrible incidents or sensitive content on social media in the UAE. Even if the news, images, scenes, remarks, opinions, or information published are genuine or truthful, the author could face a punishment of AED 100,000 to AED 500,000 and a minimum of six months in prison.
7. it’s not okay to visit adult-oriented websites, gamble, or take part in other behaviors that go against public morals. If a minor (someone under the age of 18) is found guilty, they could face harsher penalties, such as up to five years in prison and/or a fine of AED 1,000,000.
8. Using or building a website or computer network to collect donations without the required license from the competent authorities is punishable by imprisonment and/or a fine of up to AED 500,000.
9. Hacking, phishing, terrorism, and insulting the state, its institutions, or the rulers are all included by the UAE’s Cyber Crime Law, which also addresses concerns connected to national security. Penalties may be imposed for any attempts that are connected to these offenses.

It’s worth noting that the UAE courts treat each case individually, and that the outcomes for those found guilty of crimes might vary widely. Deportation as a form of punishment is possible.

The official website of the Dubai Police Department provides an online tool for residents to report cybercrimes.

Individuals can be held liable for breaking other regulations, such as labor regulations, commercial regulations, and the civil code, if they fail to comply with the stipulations of Law No. 5 of 2012 and its revisions.

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