News and developments
UAE’s New Federal Law on Countering Rumors and Cybercrimes– Key Amendments
Considering the remarkable increase in cybercrimes[1] in the UAE due to the rapid development in information technology systems, the New Law offers greater protection to citizens and residents in the UAE against online crimes given that it is an advanced law that studies a plethora of internet and social media aspects in light of the ever-growing digital era.
Authored by: Roaa Abou Assy ( Associate).
Sources: [1] According to the official records of the Cybercrime Department at Dubai Police, the complaints and calls related to cybercrimes rose by 3,000 percent since the launch of the E-Crime platform in the past three years [3] Khaleej Times: UAE authority denies deaths of 5 of a family due to Covid-19 [4] Khaleej Times: Coronavirus fake news: UAE court orders jail terms for accused [5] The United Arab Emirates’ Government Portal
Key Amendments
The key amendments to the New Law include, but not limited to, the following- criminalization of keeping or disclosing the geographical location of a third party without his/her consent;
- conducting surveys without a license;
- promoting adverts to mislead the consumers;
- cyberbegging;
- spreading rumors;
- or even capturing a photo of a third party without his/her consent.
Implications
The new sophisticated and well-developed provisions of the New Law are a direct result of the undefined and limitless online world of Cybercriminals and their activities. In this world, the effortless access to information and personal data, and the easy circulation of news and information, has become uncontrollable, to the detriment of many who fell victims to scams, false advertising, and other Cybercrime activities. Whilst it is so that Cybercrime is evolving, so is Cybersecurity and relevant legislation to control it. Therefore, the New Law is welcomed by many, and Cybercriminals should take note. You can report Cybercrimes online through the following channels:[5]- The E-Crime website.
- Aman service- Abu Dhabi Police.
- Dubai Police's website.
- The 'My Safe Society' app launched by the UAE's Federal Public Prosecution (the app is available on iTunes or Google Play)
Authored by: Roaa Abou Assy ( Associate).
Sources: [1] According to the official records of the Cybercrime Department at Dubai Police, the complaints and calls related to cybercrimes rose by 3,000 percent since the launch of the E-Crime platform in the past three years [3] Khaleej Times: UAE authority denies deaths of 5 of a family due to Covid-19 [4] Khaleej Times: Coronavirus fake news: UAE court orders jail terms for accused [5] The United Arab Emirates’ Government Portal