UAE warns against spreading misleading content and inaccurate news online

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have warned citizens and social media users against spreading misleading content and inaccurate information across digital platforms emphasising that sharing rumours can constitute a criminal offenceThe warning was highlighted in an interview shared by the UAEs Public Prosecution featuring Attorney General Khalid Al Madhani who stressed the importance of responsible information sharing in the digital ageAuthorities emphasise responsibility in sharing informationAl Madhani said information must be handled responsibly and warned that spreading rumours or false information can have serious consequencesldquoInformation is a responsibility and spreading rumours is a crimerdquo he said underlining the dangers of circulating unverified content particularly when it contradicts statements issued by official authorities hellip pictwittercomXNfDOAvf9Omdash UAE_PP March 12 2026He noted that social media users must ensure the accuracy of information before sharing it online and should rely only on credible and official sourcesPublic urged to avoid manipulating or altering contentAl Madhani also cautioned users against altering digital content or fabricating information in ways that could mislead the publicHe highlighted examples where videos or images are modified by adding sound effects or editing content in a manner that distorts the original contextAccording to him such practices can contribute to misinformation and create unnecessary panic or confusion among the publicAuthorities monitoring misinformation casesThe attorney general said authorities have observed instances where misinformation originating from outside the UAE has been falsely portrayed as incidents occurring within the countryIn such cases relevant authorities take appropriate steps to investigate and address the spread of false reportsHe added that monitoring online platforms for misleading information remains a priority for agencies responsible for combating rumours and cybercrimesPreventing misinformation crucial during unstable periodsAl Madhani emphasised that preventing the spread of inaccurate information becomes particularly important during periods of instability or crisis when misinformation can quickly spread and affect public confidenceHe urged social media users content creators and journalists to adhere to professional and ethical standards while sharing news and updatesUAE advises citizens against filming incident sites prohibited areasMeanwhile the authorities in the United Arab Emirates UAE have issued a warning that strict action will be taken against anyone who films incident sites prohibited areas or airport interiors without authorisation the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi said on SundayTo ensure the safety of the self and avoid legal consequences the Embassy advised all Indian nationals to strictly adhere to the guidelinesWhen you hear a warning alert proceed immediately to a safe place and remain there until the warning alert has been lifted for your area Do not attempt to go outside to take photographrecord videos it saidIt advised the Indian nationals to strictly avoid sharing or publishing images of incident sites including damage from projectiles or shrapnel via digitalsocial media platforms