Social Media Mocking

Social Media and its importance are a hot debate in every society now. Like any other thing in the world, it has its Pros and Cons together. Social Media is a platform where everyone has access and freedom of speech. That is why Social Media Content has much importance. Any false information is not allowed and indecent content can be subject to question, or punishment. Social Media Posts and campaigns should not contradict, promote or expose sensitive things, or reveal secret information. UAE is the most developed country in the world, where the country and its society are disciplined and organized. Therefore, social media mocking and satire laws do exist in the UAE, too. Federal Decree Law 34 of 2021, explains and stops the cybercrime of false news and rumours spread by anyone in the country, on social media networks, or using any other mediums.

Fake News and Information: Not Allowed in UAE

Any kind of fake news, fake data, false news, misleading facts, rumours, false context, false content, false directions and maps, videos, audios, false slogans, false campaigns etc, are not allowed in the UAE. The breach can cause fines and detentions. Therefore, while living in the UAE, the residents must be quite responsible towards their living and their social obligations. As stated, before that, imprisonment/detention can be accompanied by a fine. For example, Article 52 goes into much better detail about this e.g. anyone found guilty, of spreading false news, information, and facts can be or shall be sentenced for not less than one year with a fine of not less than AED 100, 000. It must be noted that it cannot be less than AED 100000 with a punishment of not less than 1 year.

Law: Article 52

Article 52, states that Anyone, who is sharing information, secret information, publishing secret news, spreading fake news, or trying to exploit the reputation of others, destroying the peace of others or related to the government, false and incorrect reports, generating false public opinion, disturbing the public peace, trying to create the public opinion based on a false report, or destroying public benefits, etc, will be leading to one year(not less than one year)sentence and fine not less than AED 100000. The penalty can also be not less than two years, and a fine not less than AED 200000. The UAE has strict laws on the web and online checking and punishing convicts. UAE is a developed country; therefore, all the latest and updated laws need to be implemented to meet the modern world’s needs. Digital Authorities like (TDRA), are the responsible institute for managing such stuff.

Legal and Social Impact in the UAE

Social media mocking is more than just jokes and satire. This type of mocking can include insulting comments, revealing someone’s secrets, spreading harmful content, making false accusations or damaging the reputation. It insults people publicly, which is not allowed in the UAE. The consequences of social media mocking in the UAE are very serious. It is advised by the UAE authorities to approach social media very carefully in the United Arab Emirates. Consequences can be very serious otherwise. Federal Decree Law No.34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrime clearly states the consequences and penalties of online mocking. The UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) monitors online activities very carefully.

Responsible Digital Behaviour

It is a legal obligation on all the businesses operating in UAE, professionals, influencers, individuals, social media companies, non-profit sectors, and all the service sectors to ensure that their content does not violate UAE rules, defame others and must respect the UAE’s cultural values. Especially the content creators nowadays have to be very careful. If they generate any content in ignorance of the law or rules, then it will not provide them any exemption.

You might need legal guidance

If there is a dispute, then legal expertise is needed. We suggest that you do not take any steps on your own behalf. Our legal experts do review the entire situation and advise as per the law. Therefore, book a legal appointment with our legal experts before making any decision.

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