UAE authority reminds content creators about respecting boundaries and privacy laws

With a rising number of 25,000 social media influencers in the UAE, it's easy to forget the boundaries that safeguard personal privacy. Recently, UAE’s Public Prosecution Department shared a cautionary tale that resonates deeply in our interconnected society.

The story features "Khaled," a jovial content creator known for his humorous videos that brought joy to his followers. However, his lighthearted journey took an unexpected turn when he filmed a family without their consent. What started as innocent content creation soon escalated into a legal issue, prompting a complaint under Article 378 of the UAE Penal Code.

Understanding Article 378

Article 378 addresses a critical aspect of privacy protection. It stipulates that publishing news, pictures, or comments related to the private or family life of individuals without their consent is strictly prohibited. Violating this law can lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to 10,000 AED.

When can you film without someone’s permission?

According to UAE cybercrime laws, any videos or photographs taken must be intended solely for sharing with authorities, not for public dissemination. It is illegal to photograph people without their consent, whether in public or private settings. Furthermore, copying, saving, or sharing these images on social media platforms without permission is also considered a violation of these laws.

Lesson learnt

"Khaled's" story serves as a poignant reminder for all residents of the UAE, and beyond. It underscores the importance of respecting privacy boundaries, even in the pursuit of sharing moments of humor or everyday life. Every individual has the right to control their personal information and decide how and where it is shared.