Hefty fines for manipulating internet protocol to commit cyber fraud

Dubai: The UAE Public Prosecution has clarified the penalties for cyber fraud involving criminal intent, emphasising the legal consequences of manipulating an information network.

In a recent tweet, the Public Prosecution referred to Article 10 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, which addresses the issue of cybercrimes and rumours. According to this article, any individual who manipulates the internet protocol (IP) address of a network — whether by using someone else’s address or other means — with the intent of committing a crime or concealing it, will face temporary imprisonment and a fine ranging from Dh500,000 to Dh2 million, or one of these penalties.

Creating or modifying bots to spread false information

Forging electronic documents

Violating privacy and tampering with sensitive data like medical records and bank accounts

Engaging in online begging or promoting illegal content

Operating websites related to human trafficking, debauchery, or obscenity

Committing electronic fraud, cyber extortion, and threats

Insulting foreign nations or promoting illegal activities like firearms trading

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has also issued warnings about common tactics used by cybercriminals for extortion and threats.

These include hacking social media accounts, exploiting accidental encounters, and recovering deleted data.

Cyber extortion can take various forms, such as financial, sexual, or personal threats, and is punishable by law.

Article 42 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 stipulates that anyone who uses information networks or technology tools to extort or threaten another person in order to force them into certain actions or inactions will face up to two years in prison and/or a fine between Dh250,000 and Dh500,000.