iPhone | iPad
Android
Huawei
For starters, they can make greater use of registries linked to existing poverty-focused programmes
KT APPDOWNLOAD
UAE: Watching porn using VPN could fetch you a Dh2 million fine
'The more content restrictions appear, the greater the demand,' says report
The usage of virtual private networks (VPNs) has grown in the UAE and Gulf region to access restricted content such as dating, gambling and adult websites and to download audio-video calling apps.
According to the latest Nord Security data, demand for VPNs in Gulf regions grew by approximately 30 per cent in the first quarter this year as compared to the same period last year. While demand for VPNs in the UAE grew by 36 per cent, reflecting more and more internet users are tapping banned content.
"The demand for VPNs in the Gulf region is increasing every year. The more content restrictions appear, the greater the demand for the VPN service," Nord Security said, adding that "many people use VPN to access blocked content."
It said usage of VPN is common among the Gulf residents to make audio-video calls through popular apps such as WhatsApp, Skype, Facetime, Discord, IMO as well as dating apps.
In terms of content, VPNs are also used to access restricted content such as dating, gambling, pornography, drugs, and VoIP websites among others, said Nord Security.
Is it illegal to use VPN in UAE?
According to Ashish Mehta, managing partner, Ashish Mehta & Associates, the usage of VPN in the UAE is not illegal if it's used as per the guidelines of the UAE government and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).
The TDRA mentioned in a statement on August 1, 2016, that VPNs may be used by companies, institutions and banks for internal purposes.
ALSO READ:
However, using VPNs for illegal means or to commit a crime is a serious offence under the UAE Decree Law No (34) of 2021 concerning combating rumours and cybercrimes.
Also, using a VPN by hiding the IP address to get access to websites/calling applications /gaming applications which are blocked by the UAE government is illegal.
Under Article 10 of the UAE Cyber Law, Mehta said people misusing VPNs could face imprisonment and a fine between Dh500,000 to Dh2 million.
- waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com
More news from
The airline will not only provide religious content on its entertainment system, but will also have iftar boxes ready
The Crown Prince meets with heads of Dubai Government entities to explore new ways to raise government excellence
It pays tribute to all who contributed to what was a flagship national project and a proud milestone in the history of the UAE
Almost 1.6 million displaced people have been helped by UNHCR, using its Zakat fund in 2022
It is numerically the biggest meeting in the event's history with horses coming from all corners of the globe
The Delhi Commission for Women chairperson has taken cognisance of this incident and has issued a notice on the same
The newly discovered site bears signs of year-round habitation, unlike other pearling operations run in seasonal spots in the region