Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumours and Cybercrimes took effect on 2 January 2022. The law provides a comprehensive legal framework to address the concerns relating to the misuse and abuse of online technologies.

It aims to enhance the level of protection from online crimes committed through the use of information technology, networks and platforms. It further seeks to protect the UAE’s government websites and databases, combat the spread of rumours and fake news, safeguard against electronic fraud and maintain privacy and personal rights.

The law lists offences and penalties against any person who may create or use an electronic site or any information technology means for hacking, attacking or tampering with government information systems and data, disseminating false information, or information that harms the interest and the security of the UAE. Other cyber offences in the law include:

• creating or modifying robots to distribute false data
• falsifying electronic documents
• invading the privacy of others
• tampering with medical data, bank accounts and confidential codes
• eBegging
• publishing data that does not comply with media content standards
• creating illegal content and refraining from removing it
• creating or managing a website for promoting human trafficking
• transferring, possessing and using illegal funds
• raising funds without a licence
• blackmailing and extortion
• insulting and slandering others
• conducting statistical surveys without a licence
• promoting demonstrations without a licence
• offending a foreign country or religion
• promoting firearms and explosives
• advertising information which mislead consumers.

Read these articles from WAM, for more information:

• Penalties of collecting and processing personal data and information
• Penalties of fake e-mails, websites, online accounts
• Penalties for falsifying electronic document
• Penalties for infringement of data of financial, commercial, economic institutions using IT
• Penalties of failure to comply with media content standards
• Penalties for incitement of debauchery using computer or IT networks.

Read about other cyber laws and regulations in the UAE.