Dubai: Residents should be more aware of the legal consequences of their online behaviour, an expert has said in light of a recent reported arrest of an Australian-British national for allegedly promoting a US-registered charity on Facebook.
There are many areas where residents can cross the red line without realising they have flouted the rules such as making slanderous statements and insulting others, posting pictures of people without their consent, or simply launching a fund-raising page asking for donations.
Alex Malouf, a social media and fund-raising expert, said residents should regularly practise caution when posting information and engaging with others online, as just as there are laws for physical behaviour, the laws impact online activities too.
“Being online doesn’t mean we are legally immune for what we post or share, no matter how good our intentions may be. It’s very common to see UAE residents posting links to online charity funds or causes. UAE residents care greatly about a wide range of issues, and they often want to support these issues through charitable giving or fund-raising, either directly or through sponsoring an activity such as a marathon run.”
However, he said, many residents are still unaware of the law regarding fund-raising. “If a resident is going to support a good cause, either online or offline, they need to be aware that IACAD (Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department) approvals are a legal requirement. This law covers what we do in cyberspace as well.”
The laws regulating online engagement are designed to protect the religion, culture and customs of the country we live in, he noted.
“For example, this means respecting the right of privacy of others when it comes to taking pictures and sharing those pictures online and using respectful language about people as well as about Islam and the country’s leadership.”
He said it is a common occurrence to read about people having written online or shared what isn’t true or having offended someone without them realising that their actions have serious legal consequences.
“We seem to forget to pause and ask if what we are doing is right and in keeping with local laws. If you’re in doubt as to whether what you are doing is legal, then ask. If you’re still unsure, then don’t do it. Better to be safe than sorry, including when online,” he said.
The most common issues today are the spreading of rumours online, which is happening on a daily basis, followed by sharing of images such as accidents, and also defamation.
