Dubai Police are reminding social media users that while freedom of expression is valued, there is a clear legal boundary when online comments turn into deliberate attempts to damage the reputation of individuals or businesses. Major Yasser Juma Mohammed, head of the Social Media Crimes Section, recently highlighted a notable case where a group was arrested for posting fake negative reviews on Google Maps. The investigation revealed that these individuals aimed to sabotage a specific company’s operations, resulting in significant financial harm and triggering a formal criminal investigation.

Authorities are stressing that hiding behind fake accounts offers no protection, as specialized police units are highly skilled at tracking the digital footprints of those who engage in defamation, threats, or the spreading of rumors. Beyond direct attacks, users are also being cautioned about the dangers of resharing unverified information, which can hold just as much legal risk as being the original author. To maintain safety, residents are encouraged to rely solely on official sources for information and to visit the Dubai Police eCrime Hub to stay informed about digital security and the legal repercussions of online misconduct.