UAE: Sharing False News Or Rumours, Even As A Part Of April Fools Day Prank, Can Land You In Jail

In recent news, it was mentioned how residents who share false information online, even as part of the April Fool’s jokes, can face jail terms and hefty fines. The Sharjah Public Prosecution warned about this in a public awareness message. For those who are wondering, April 1st is celebrated as April Fools’ Day, and usually, people go all out in ranking others. Here’s what the laws mention regarding the sharing of rumours.

Sharing False News, Even As An April Fool’s Joke, Can Land You In Jail

As mentioned in a report of the Gulf News, it was revealed that the laws in the UAE make no distinction between misinformation shared for humour and content that causes harm. So, both are treated as criminal offences. In the Instagram post shared by the authority, this warning comes as April Fool’s content gets circulated widely across social media platforms. These contents are usually aimed at entertainment and boosting engagement. So, the authorities have warned against such actions as they can cross into legal boundaries.

What Are The Fines?

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by النيابة العامة في إمارة الشارقة (@sharjah_pp) 

Under Article 52 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, which is on Countering Rumours and Cybercrimes, anyone who is found guilty of publishing or republishing false information online can face severe penalties. They can face at least one year in prison and a minimum fine of AED100,000. As it happens, this law applies to content, which can influence public opinion and disturb public security. It also applies to content that can spread panic, harm public interest, the economy, public order or public health. So, the authorities have emphasised that intent is not going to be a case for defence, as individuals who even share it as a joke can be held legally accountable.

Also Read: 7 Best Restaurants In Abu Dhabi To Dine At Under AED 150

Severe Penalties For Sharing False Information

It should be noted that penalties increase if the false information is aimed at misleading the public. Not to mention, if it incites against the state authorities or institutions, offenders can face at least two years in prison and a minimum of AED200,000. In fact, the penalties are significantly stricter during crises, emergencies, disasters and epidemics. After all, rumours can trigger panic and undermine public safety.

Offenders in these situations are liable to

A minimum of two years in prison
Fines can start from AED200,000

Finally, in wartime scenarios, deliberately spreading these rumours which harm military readiness or incite panic might even carry the death penalty. So, make sure you think before you share and do not circulate any rumours. No matter whether it’s intentional or as a joke, spreading false information can have serious consequences.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Kirill Smyslov from Getty Images & Instagram/sharjah_pp