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The UAE Attorney-General has warned people against circulating false information and rumours about the spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus on social media.
At a media briefing in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, Dr Hamad Al Shamsi asked the public to stop sharing videos showing families stocking food and other grocery products, stressing that it was creating unnecessary fear and panic among residents.
Dr Al Shamsi said the UAE has taken necessary precautionary measures to contain the spread of Covid-19 and people who spread rumours about the virus on social media deliberately or out of ignorance by re-sharing false information, will face legal action including jail.
He noted that people spreading rumours will be held accountable according to the articles of the law to combat cybercrime. "UAE authorities will take strict actions and impose tough penalties ranging from one year to several years in jail against people circulating rumours on social media, depending on the magnitude of panic caused by the rumours," said Al Shamsi.
"People spreading false information undermine the security and stability of society, threaten the country's social and economic development and create fear and panic among members of the community - both citizens and residents."
The attorney-general called on everyone to contribute positively to educating the society about the dangers of spreading rumours or false information from non-credible and non-authorised sources with no scientific proof.
He said persons have recently been spreading false information about Covid-19 and the response and efforts of the concerned authorities to contain it.
"There was also false information spreading on social media that people should stay at home and are not allowed in public places," said Al Shamsi, adding that a number of people have been caught for such irresponsible acts without specifying the charges or punishments that were given to the offenders.
He also warned people against sharing posts or videos that encourage others to stock more supplies in preparation for the situation, stressing that this creates panic among people and is punishable by law.
The official warned that circulating fake news or rumours to cause insecurity in society could be considered a national security or cyber crime.
Al Shamsi explained that when a rumour or false information is spread, prosecutors begin investigating its source. Once the suspect or suspects are found, they are summoned for questioning or get detained if investigations confirm that they really committed the crime. After gathering enough evidence against the suspect, prosecutors refer the case to court.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com
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