Authorities remind social media users to verify information before sharing, warning that spreading false reports can carry serious legal consequences.
SHARJAH: Sharjah Police have warned residents against sharing rumors and unverified information on social media, reminding the public that spreading false news can lead to at least one year in prison and fines of Dh100,000 or more under UAE law.
In an awareness video, Sharjah Police Headquarters demonstrated how misleading content can spread quickly online, causing unnecessary fear and anxiety. The examples included fake or outdated footage of industrial fires being forwarded to family members and friends through messaging apps and social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Instagram.
Major Saud Al Shaiba, director of the Awareness Branch at Sharjah Police, warned that even a single message could cause widespread concern.
“A single message can be enough to cause anxiety among hundreds of people,” he said, stressing that unverified information can undermine social stability and create fear based on false claims.
Jail and Fines for Spreading Rumors
Sharjah Police reminded residents that publishing or sharing false news and rumors online can attract criminal penalties under Article 52 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes.
The provision covers the use of electronic platforms to broadcast, publish, or republish rumors, false news, and misleading information.
According to the police awareness message, offenders can face imprisonment for at least one year and fines starting at Dh100,000.
The warning highlights that forwarding content received from another person does not make it safe to share without checking its accuracy.
Police Urge Residents to Verify Information
Sharjah Police called on citizens and residents to take responsibility for the information they circulate online, warning that false claims can harm individuals and society.
The authorities advised the public to rely on official government sources and authorized news outlets when checking reports, particularly those involving emergencies, public safety, and major incidents.
Residents were also urged to verify the source and authenticity of photos, videos, and messages before forwarding them to others.
Responsible Social Media Use Is Everyone’s Responsibility
The police warning comes as messaging apps and social media platforms allow information to reach large audiences within minutes. However, old footage, misleading captions, and fabricated reports can make it difficult for users to distinguish genuine incidents from false claims.
Sharjah Police stressed that responsible digital behavior is a shared responsibility and encouraged users to pause and check information before sharing it.
The central message is simple: verify a report before forwarding it. A single false message can cause widespread anxiety, while sharing unverified information may also carry serious legal consequences under UAE law.
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