Watch: Abu Dhabi Police show real-life scenarios of online blackmail

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Police have released a new episode of their awareness series Abwab, highlighting the dangers of engaging with unknown individuals on social media and the risks of online blackmail.

The latest episode, Adhari, depicts real-life scenarios to educate residents about the consequences of online extortion, emphasising that blackmail is a crime punishable by law.

The police urged the public not to comply with extortionists’ demands or send money under threats, advising immediate reporting through official channels.

Authorities stressed that victims of cyber blackmail can confidentially seek help 24/7 through Aman service by calling the toll-free number 8002626 (AMAN2626), sending a text message to 2828, or emailing aman@adpolice.gov.ae.

The Abu Dhabi Police continue to produce dramatized awareness content based on actual cases, aiming to enhance public security awareness and prevent cyber-related crimes across the UAE.

According to Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2021 on Countering Rumors and Cybercrimes, Article (42) outlines strict penalties for cyberextortion and cyber threats.

Individuals using information networks or digital tools to extort or threaten others can face imprisonment for up to two years and/or fines ranging from Dh 250,000 to Dh 500,000.

If the threat involves coercion into a crime or dishonorable act, the penalty increases to temporary imprisonment of up to 10 years.