Fines for storing, sharing illegal online content

The UAE Public Prosecution has announced a minimum fine of Dh300,000 and a maximum penalty of Dh10 million for sharing or storing illegal online content.

In a video posted on its social media accounts, the Public Prosecution said the penalties are aimed at combating rumours and e-crimes, in accordance with Article 53 of the Federal Decree Law 34 of 2021.

According to the law, anyone who uses an online website or account to store, share or publish illegal content and refuses to ban access to such materials within the duration specified in official orders will be penalised.

Moreover, someone who fully or partly declines to remove such content as stipulated in the decree will also be liable for punishment.

Article (11) of the Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on combatting rumours and cybercrimes, stipulates that any person who creates fake website, online account or e-mail, impersonating a natural or legal person, shall be subject to imprisonment and a fine of not less than Dh50,000 and not more than Dh200,000, or one of the two penalties.

The Public Prosecution further elaborated that the offender shall be imprisoned for a minimum of two years, if they use or allow any person to use the fake website, online account or e-mail to cause harm to the impersonated victim.

A penalty of imprisonment of not more than five years, and a fine of not less than Dh200,000 and not more than Dh2,000,000, shall be applicable if such fake website, online account or e-mail impersonates any UAE entity.