Exploring Cyber Blackmail Under Cyber Law in UAE

The cyber law in UAE, for example, defines ‘cyber blackmail’ as a crime wherein a person uses an electronic communication to coerce another person. The perpetrator forces the victim to do something against their will or to stop carrying out legitimate activities.

In addition, this crime is usually used by offenders as a means of compelling the victims to a payment of a ransom, or the dissemination of sensitive information, or abandonment of work to obtain it due to plausible threats. Importantly, this offence mainly applies in accordance with the provisions of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021.

Article 2

Moreover, another important element of cybercrime is hacking, which is also covered by Article 2 of cyber crime UAE law. Hackers electronically break into people’s private and sensitive data. They then use this stolen data as leverage to conduct cyber blackmail in the UAE.

Article 13

Moreover, this article clearly forbids individuals from collecting, processing, or using illegally acquired personal data without authorization. Cyber-blackmailers often rely on this method to pressure victims whose information they have stolen.

Article 42

Based on Article 42 of the UAE cybercrime law, anybody who attempts to blackmail or threaten another person using information networks or information technology may be arrested for up to two years.

Perpetrators also face financial penalties of between AED 250,000 and AED 500,000. Such a strong provision gives a verdict on the overall structure of the cyber law in the UAE, which works for the protection of individuals from digital threats and criminal use of technology.

Article 44

Article 43 – whoever damages another’s reputation, indicating lower quality products, provoking disgrace through or by information systems, shall be punished by imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. And the punishment is going more severe ranging from provisionary imprisonment up to 10 years depending on the degree of the offense.

This clause is included in the wider context of cyber law in UAE, which covers the parameters of digital crimes and acts as a potent defence for individuals.

Protecting Yourself from Cyber Blackmail under Cyber Law in UAE

No one, of course, can guarantee protection from cyber blackmail, but keeping an active defence plan certainly will make one much less likely to be targeted. Here are several tips for protecting yourself:

Unique Passwords: Use a different and strong password for each of your online accounts. Never disclose your password(s) to anyone.

Antivirus Software: Ensure your antivirus software is up to date and ready to defend against malware and other cyberattacks.

Do not Fall for Phishing Scams: Be wary of suspicious emails, messages, or calls asking for your personal information. Phishing scams are often to blame in collecting sensitive data meant to be used by cyber blackmailers.

Data Privacy: Be careful what you share online. Do not share sensitive information in social media or public forums.

Conclusion 

The UAE maintains a strong legal framework against cyber extortion and online blackmail through its cyber laws, including Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021. This includes preventive and punitive measures (Articles 2, 13, 42, and 43). These laws are designed to deter cybercriminals, as well as to enable individuals to protect their online presence. Cybercrime Issues order to prevent and handle cybercrime issues, the Best Lawyers in Dubai at Khairallah Law Firm can help you in pursuit of these objectives.