Amid escalating tensions in West Asia due to the ongoing Iran-related conflict, the United Arab Emirates has initiated strict action against individuals accused of spreading misleading and artificially created videos on social media. Authorities have ordered the arrest of 35 people, including 19 Indian nationals, alleging that they circulated edited or AI-generated clips related to the war, creating confusion and panic among the public.
According to a report by the UAE’s official news agency, the accused have been referred for expedited or fast-track trials. Investigators monitoring digital platforms found that several individuals were recording footage of missile interceptions and drone activity and sharing it online after altering or embellishing the videos.
Accused divided into three groups
Investigations revealed that the suspects were operating in three separate groups. The first group allegedly recorded real video clips showing missiles passing through the airspace or being intercepted, and then edited them before sharing them on social media. These clips reportedly included added sound effects such as explosions, sirens, and dramatic commentary to create the impression of large-scale attacks inside the country. Authorities said such content could trigger fear and public panic.
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The second group is accused of creating completely fabricated visual content using artificial intelligence or recirculating footage from incidents in other countries while falsely claiming they occurred in the UAE. These videos depicted scenes of explosions, fires, and missile strikes, often accompanied by national flags or specific dates to make the footage appear authentic.
The third group allegedly posted content praising a “hostile state” and its political and military leadership while portraying its regional military actions as achievements. Authorities said such posts promoted propaganda narratives considered harmful to the country’s national interests and stability.
Earlier arrests in similar case
Officials said that 10 individuals had already been booked in a related case on Saturday, including two Indians. Further investigation led to the identification of additional suspects, bringing the total number of accused to 35.
Investigators also found that some videos exploited children’s emotions and falsely suggested serious security threats in major cities. In several cases, footage from foreign incidents was circulated online while being falsely attributed to locations within the UAE.
Concerns over exposure of defence capabilities
Authorities warned that sharing videos showing missile trajectories or drone interceptions could reveal sensitive information about the country’s defence systems. Such footage, officials said, might help hostile actors analyse the UAE’s security capabilities and spread misleading narratives.
As a result, digital monitoring has been intensified and strict action is being taken against those responsible for circulating misleading content.
Strict penalties under UAE law
Under UAE law, spreading false information or digital content that threatens national security or public order can attract a minimum prison sentence of one year and a fine of at least AED 100,000 (approximately ₹22 lakh).
Authorities have cautioned that strict legal action will continue against anyone attempting to exploit the current conflict by spreading fabricated or misleading content online. Citizens have also been urged to verify the authenticity of any video or information before sharing it on social media.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
