Covid-19: UAE 'circular' on your calls, social media being monitored is fake

The Community Development Authority (CDA) has denied a rumour being circulated on social media platforms, which falsely claimed there would be communication regulations in the UAE in the wake of the Covid-19 fear.

The authority stressed that it does not state any information related to other entities in the country.

"The CDA calls on the public to be cautious and not to publish or exchange unreliable information and refer to the responsible sources for obtaining the correct information to avoid accountability and violate applicable legislation," a statement from the authority said.

A message that went viral and falsely attributed to the CDA said all phone calls will be recorded and social media communication, including on WhatsApp and Facebook, will be monitored.

The @CDA_Dubai denies the authenticity of a circular being shared on social media regarding "new communication regulations." These measures, specifically related to phone conversations and the use of platforms such as WhatsApp, Twitter & Facebook, are entirely fabricated. #Dubai pic.twitter.com/M0dYV9svHI

- Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 31, 2020

The authority stressed that spreading false and miselading information, rumours and fake news is a crime under UAE law. Such malicious acts threaten the safety and stability of the community.