The SMS reminder from Dubai Police against sharing misleading information. EXPAT MEDIA

The UAE Public Prosecution has warned residents against photographing or sharing images and videos of incident sites, saying such material could create public panic or misrepresent the country’s situation. Attorney-General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said publishing images of locations affected by falling projectiles or debris could undermine the work of authorities responding to such incidents. He stressed that competent institutions are managing developments while daily life in the country continues normally. “Disseminating such materials or inaccurate information can incite public panic and create a false impression of the country's actual situation,” Al Shamsi said.

Warning against filming incident locations

Despite previous advisories, authorities said some individuals have continued filming incident sites and posting footage online. Al Shamsi warned that sharing such material or spreading misleading information could violate UAE law if it results in public panic or harms public order. He also cautioned against fabricated content created using artificial intelligence or digital editing. This includes clips falsely showing missile strikes or attacks on facilities that never occurred. “ Fabricating or publishing such content to mislead the public is a criminal offense,” he said, adding that legal action will be taken against violators. The warning follows a statement by Dubai Police earlier this week cautioning against sharing rumours or unverified videos. Authorities said violators could face jail time and fines starting from Dh200,000. On Friday (March 6) Dubai Police issued an SMS reminder urging the public not to share sensitive photos, misleading videos or unverified information online. “Responsibility begins with compliance. Photographing or sharing security or critical sites, or reposting unreliable information may result in legal action and compromise national security and stability. Compliance helps keep the community safe and stable. Your security is our happiness,” the alert read. The message was sent to residents and visitors at around 10:35am. The reminder comes as authorities continue to stress the importance of responsible online behaviour amid regional developments that have attracted widespread attention on international media and social networks. Meanwhile, the UAE Cybersecurity Council urged the public to verify information before reacting to online videos that may be manipulated. Authorities continue to advise the public to rely only on official announcements when seeking information. ICA/Expat Media
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