UAE Privacy Laws: Dh150,000 Fine for Revealing Secrets
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Authority (ADJD) has shed light on the UAE's stringent stance against revealing secrets, emphasizing the significant fines and penalties associated with violating privacy laws. The explanation comes in the context of the country's anti-rumors and cybercrime law, specifically Article 44 of Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021.
In a digital age where smart technologies are prevalent, the UAE is committed to ensuring the protection of individuals' privacy and personal boundaries. The ADJD, in its recent awareness drive, reiterated the gravity of offenses related to the unauthorized recording, sharing, and dissemination of private information.
One of the key aspects emphasized by the ADJD is the prohibition of recording or sharing conversations without the consent of the involved parties. This restriction extends to taking and storing pictures of individuals without their explicit permission. These privacy violations, especially in the absence of consent, are considered serious offenses under the law.
The UAE adopts a zero-tolerance policy for breaches of privacy, and various actions fall under this category, attracting severe penalties. Offenses include sharing news, images, comments, or private information about an individual without their consent, even if the material is authentic. Additionally, recording, broadcasting, or disclosing conversations and audio-visual materials about a person without their permission is strictly prohibited.
The law also addresses the unauthorized publication of photos depicting the injured, deceased, or victims of accidents. Taking such photos and disseminating them without the explicit consent of the individuals involved is deemed a violation of privacy.
Another prohibited action under the law is the tracking of a person's GPS location without their knowledge or consent. With technological advancements enabling such tracking capabilities, the law aims to curb any misuse of this information for privacy-invasive purposes.
Penalties for violating these privacy provisions are severe, ranging from a minimum fine of Dh150,000 to Dh500,000 and/or imprisonment for at least six months. The strict application of these penalties reflects the UAE's commitment to safeguarding the privacy and dignity of individuals in an era where personal information is increasingly vulnerable to misuse.
Moreover, the ADJD highlighted that penalties would escalate if voice notes, photos, or scenes are altered with the intent to defame or offend another person. In such cases, the minimum jail term would be increased to one year, accompanied by fines ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000.
The UAE's anti-rumors and cybercrime law aligns with the global efforts to address privacy concerns in the digital landscape. As technology continues to advance, legislations that protect individuals from unauthorized intrusions into their private lives become crucial to maintaining a secure and respectful environment. The ADJD's clarification serves as a reminder of the legal consequences associated with privacy violations, reinforcing the importance of respecting personal boundaries in the digital age.
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By- Sahiba Suri
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