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When Iranian missile and drone attacks on the UAE began earlier this year, cybercrime laws also came into focus as the conflict played out not only in the sky, but online. Authorities announced arrests linked to misleading videos, AI-generated clips, illegal filming and the spread of misinformation.
For many residents, the reaction was one of surprise: how could a screenshot, forwarded video or social media post become a criminal matter?
The answer lies in legal frameworks that were already in place.
During ordinary times, many forms of online misconduct can carry penalties under the UAE’s cybercrime laws. But during crises, emergencies or disasters, the stakes rise considerably. Article 52 criminalises using the internet to spread false news, misleading rumours or content contrary to official announcements, as well as material that could disturb public peace, spread panic or harm public order.
In normal circumstances, the minimum penalty is one year in prison and a fine of 100,000 UAE dirhams. During epidemics, crises, emergencies, or disasters, those figures double to a minimum of two years and 200,000 UAE dirhams. The recent conflict did not create a new law. It triggered stricter penalties under one that already existed.
Legal consultant Ahmed Elnaggar, managing partner of Elnaggar & Partners, says the rationale is consistent with that framework. “Content shared during emergencies is assessed not only for its accuracy, but also for its potential impact on stability, security and public perception,” he says. “What might appear as commentary or documentation can, in such contexts, be interpreted as harmful or unlawful communication.”
Authorities ordered the arrest of defendants accused of publishing misleading videos, including AI-generated clips, and circulating material deemed harmful to public order and security. Abu Dhabi Police also announced the arrest of 375 people for illegally photographing designated locations and spreading misinformation online.
From a legal standpoint, Elnaggar says, all content from unverified or unofficial sources during a conflict carries serious risk. “Only content issued by official, approved UAE public authorities should be treated as safe to share,” he advises.
Long before the recent conflict, the UAE’s cybercrime framework has always extended beyond hacking, stolen password, and online fraud. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, it also covers privacy violations, false information, misuse of digital platforms, online defamation and other forms of harmful online conduct.
For residents, tourists, creators, and anyone carrying a smartphone, the practical lesson is simple: some common online habits can have legal implications.
When a Screenshot Stops Being Harmless
Screenshots have become a language of their own. They document conversations, settle arguments, provide evidence in disputes and occasionally serve no purpose beyond making a group chat briefly more interesting.
But once a private exchange is copied and shared, it may no longer be treated as private – and intent is not always the only factor considered under the law.
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