New UAE cybercrime law: At least Dh200,000 fine for sharing fake news about pandemics, crises

Under the UAE's new cybercrime law, publishing and sharing fake news and rumours on social media can result in a minimum fine of Dh100,000 and one-year jail sentence.

The penalty increases to two years in prison and a minimum Dh200,000 fine if the crime was committed during pandemics, emergencies and crises.

The Federal Decree Law No. 5 of 2021 on Combating Cybercrimes, effective from January 2, 2022, covers new areas of the internet, bringing major amendments to Federal Law 5 of 2012.

“Under the new provision, online users who share incorrect information are also part of the crime, not only the publisher. Now everyone has the responsibility to confirm the information they receive before sharing it or risk being jailed,” said Ghassan El Daye, partner and head of litigation in Middle East at Charles Russell Speechlys.

“This is important because we know how fake news tends to be attractive for readers to share without confirming its authenticity which may unintentionally cause panic.”

For the first time, the law also defines the term ‘electronic robot’, with article 54 stating that using or modifying electronic robots to share, re-share or circulate fake news in the country can land the offender a prison term of two years or a fine not less than Dh100,000 up to one million, or both.

ALSO READ:

sherouk@khaleejtimes.com