Cyberbullying is a prevalent issue in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that poses significant challenges to individuals and communities. Cyberbullying is defined as online harassment using social media means by which the cyberbully tries to find ways that can make the victim feel threatened and nervous. Cyberbullying has become a serious offense in the UAE, with laws in place to prevent and punish such behavior.
Cyberbullying in UAE | Hire Expert Lawyers in Dubai UAE
In the UAE, cyberbullying commonly occurs through social media platforms and messaging applications, where negative messages can be rapidly disseminated to a larger and more diverse audience. The proliferation of mobile phones and apps like WhatsApp has made it easier for cyberbullies to spread harmful content and target their victims. Additionally, the ability for secondary perpetrators to forward and share the negative material further amplifies its impact.
To combat cyberbullying, the UAE has implemented laws and regulations. The Federal Law No. 5 of 2012 on Combating Cybercrimes criminalizes cyberbullying and outlines penalties for those found guilty of such offences. Individuals convicted of cyberbullying can face imprisonment for up to three years and fines ranging from AED 250,000 to AED 500,000, depending on the severity of the offence. Furthermore, the law permits the confiscation of devices used to commit the offence.
The UAE has also introduced Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 (Cybercrime Law) to address cybercrime, rumors, and fake news. This law replaces the previous cybercrime legislation and provides punishments for various types of cyberbullying offences. Extortion, insults, unauthorized sharing of personal photos or videos, and social media defamation are among the prevalent forms of cyberbullying covered by the law.
It is crucial for individuals in the UAE to understand the consequences of cyberbullying and exercise responsible online behavior. Posting insulting or offensive content, sharing confidential information without permission, and engaging in cybercrime can lead to criminal charges, fines, and imprisonment. Furthermore, the UAE’s strict censorship laws require individuals to be mindful of cultural, religious, and social norms when using social media platforms.
To protect themselves from cyberbullying, individuals should be cautious about their online activities, keep personal information private, report instances of cyberbullying to authorities, block or unfollow perpetrators, and seek support from trusted individuals or professionals if victimized. By promoting online safety and respect for others, the UAE can work towards creating a secure and inclusive digital environment.
