Social Media Struggles: Blackmailers In The UAE Threaten Snapchat Users In Exchange For Money

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Blackmailers on Snapchat are starting to victimise more people in Dubai in exchange for money. There have been several examples in the country wherein extortionists have threatened Snapchat users in the UAE, according to the Dubai Police. 

Several cases have been brought by the Dubai Police

There’s been a case wherein an Emirati man was messaging a woman on Snapchat, asking her if they could speak over a call. The man sent the woman his pictures and videos, which then lead the woman threatening to send the man’s wife the pictures unless he sends her money. 

Another example involves an Arab mother who thought she had accepted a Snapchat friend request from a friend, who told the police that she eventually shared photos and videos of herself to the woman. Unknowing of its consequences or the actual identity of the person, who then threatened to post the content online if she did not engage in the sexual act. 

A social media manager told The National that there are applications that allow the saving of videos and pictures on Snapchat (without their knowledge)

Amir Gomaa who manages UAE Exchange’s social media accounts said that sharing someone’s images and videos on the app can have serious consequences. 

Gomaa advises parents to take careful notice of their children’s use of Snapchat as they can usually be inquisitive and negligent.

“Federal Decree No 5 of 2012 addresses cybercrime. Article 16 deals with “sextortion”, stating that when an individual makes a threat in return for money, the extortioner can face imprisonment for up to two years and a fine between Dh250,000 and Dh500,000. “

Majid Al Jallaf, Dubai lawyer

Al Jallaf also told The National that the punishment would be different and worse if the extortioner asks a victim to perpetrate a crime or do anything that is against the victim’s morals, which could lead to up to 10 years in prison. 

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