Sharjah Police warn of Dh100,000 fine, jail for spreading fake news

Sharjah Police have issued a stern warning to residents against the spread of misinformation and unverified content on social media platforms. In a recent video, the police emphasized the severe consequences that offenders may face under UAE law, including a potential one-year imprisonment and a fine exceeding Dh100,000. The awareness campaign aims to curb the rapid dissemination of misleading information that can cause widespread panic and anxiety among the public.

The video provides numerous examples of how users may receive alarming posts, such as false footage of industrial fires, and then share them with family and friends through messaging apps like WhatsApp and social media platforms like Instagram without verifying the content. Major Saud Al Shaiba, Director of the Awareness Branch at Sharjah Police, explained that a single message can lead to significant anxiety among hundreds of individuals, potentially destabilizing social cohesion.

Under Article 52 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes, publishing or sharing false news and rumours online can result in criminal penalties. The law stipulates a minimum of one year in prison and a fine of Dh100,000 or more for those found guilty of disseminating such content. The Sharjah Police's awareness message stresses the importance of responsible digital behavior, urging citizens and residents to verify the source and authenticity of any information before sharing it.

The public is advised to rely on official government entities and reputable news outlets for accurate information.

The Sharjah Police emphasized that spreading false claims not only harms individuals but also poses a threat to societal stability. They urged social media users to take responsibility for the content they share, warning that even a single false rumour can have far-reaching consequences beyond the initial post.