Watch what you post on social media

If you are surprised at the recent spate of people landing in trouble for posting on social media, it's because etiquette lines are being crossed. With more than half of the UAE's population (9.58 million) online, and 5.40 million active social media accounts, 'online conduct' needs to be carefully regulated, keeping in mind privacy and security concerns. So what is it that you can and can't say on social media in UAE? It's against the law to post hate speeches or anything that incites violence, or contains graphic or gratuitous violence. Users also can't post material of a pornographic nature. While it's true that the law does no favour to users who defame and/or post offensive content on social media networks, common sense also dictates that you watch what you post. As Natalia Shustova, legal director of Busit Advocates says, "Be careful with language in your posts. One has to behave online as one would offline. If one wouldn't say rude things in person, why would you post rude things?" Under UAE's cybercrime laws, users can be arrested, and deported for clicking pictures without the consent of those shown, and posting them online. There is also a TRA guideline that says you can't tag people on Facebook without their consent. If the tagged person takes offence, he/she can file a complaint that could land you in jail. While these are extreme cases, bear in mind that most people consider it basic courtesy to adhere to the country's laws. Akanksha Goel, director, SocializeAgency, a digital communications agency, says, "I think we make too much about what is an obvious step for a country trying to protect its citizens who have a right to privacy, which may be abused by others who use social media frivolously. Whether a billboard or social media, the law prohibits the publication of content which is contrary to public morals and welfare of the nation - and we'd much rather live in a country with these laws than without them." One should pay close attention to what one posts on their social media accounts, to ensure the content isn't seen as offensive or misguided, feels Tamim Taufiq, territory manager, Middle East - Symantec Corporation. "While this may seem obvious, there have been instances where people have slipped up, with the consequences being severe. To avoid such a scenario, ask yourself before you hit the send button on a post: will I offend anyone with this content, or is this appropriate?" As Tamim points out, everything you put online including photos, videos and status updates are there for the world to see. Don't post pictures of yourself, your friends, family or strangers online, without their permission. "When using Facebook or Twitter as an outlet to express your feelings, keep it clean. Never make the mistake of using profanity. even an emoji can land you in hot water." It's very simple, really. "Always make sure your comments are made in good taste, never poke fun at serious matters. If you wouldn't want something said to you, don't share it with others." An avid user of social media, Rehan Khalid, Dubai-based event manager has a simple policy. He says, "I try to avoid touchy topics. There may be things I don't agree with but I don't have to say that online and make an issue of it." He says as he's living here, it's only right that he respects the rules here.   Khaleej Times