HomeCybercrime Lawyers in UAE
With the rapid technology development and internet adoption in the UAE, Dubai has become a dynamic metropolis attracking international investors. However, this digital innovation has increased the risk of cybercrimes, ranging from data breaches and identity theft to online fraud and crypto scams.
UAE has some of the strictest cyber security laws in the world, and such crimes can lead to serious consequences, including imprisonment and heavy fines. Our cybercrime attorneys in the UAE provide robust defense strategies and protect your rights when navigating through the complexities of crimes in the digital world.
What is cybercrime?
Cybercrimes refer to illegal activities conducted in the digital realm using computers and the internet. In the UAE, data protection and cyber security legal frameworks are actively developing, driven by emerging technologies. However, the transnational nature of cybercrimes requires international cooperation between different departments as criminals hide behind anonymity and operate across multiple jurisdictions.
Our skilled cybercrime attorneys in Dubai offer discreet consultations and strong legal defense in internet fraud cases. We work with cybersecurity experts to gather digital evidence in your pursuit of justice, freedom, and reputational restoration.
Here are the main types of cybercrimes in Dubai:
- Cyber-dependent crimes: These crimes require direct use of computers and information networks. That includes offenses like spreading computer viruses, DDoS attacks, hacking attempts, crypto fraud, and ransomware. Such crimes are particularly relevant in light of the widespread adoption of internet banking and digital currencies in the UAE.
- Independent cybercrimes: These are crimes committed without using information systems, but with an amplification of their scale and consequences through the internet or computer networks. They include standard crimes such as theft, fraud, and blackmail, but with the addition of technologies to scale the damage.
Regardless of the type of cybercrime you have encountered, you need an experienced lawyer who can protect your interests, investigate the complex aspects of the case, and represent you in court.
Types of cybercrimes
Cybercrime lawyers in Dubai deal with a wide range of digital threats. The most common types of cybercrimes in Dubai include phishing and password theft to access banking and personal information. Cyber criminals also intercept emails through email spoofing and DNS hacking to infiltrate corporate networks or deceive individuals. That’s often associated with the substitution of banking details and theft of funds.
Identity theft is another serious threat. Fraudsters use the obtained information for purchases, subscriptions, and even taking out loans in the victim’s name. Violation of copyright and trademarks is also considered a criminal offence in the UAE. Illegal use of brands, logos, and protected materials is grounds for criminal prosecution. Additionally, UAE and federal law enforce strict penalties for illegal content shared over the internet.
Hacking accounts on social networks, messengers, and online banking can lead to financial losses, especially in cases of compromised bank cards. DDoS attacks (denial of service) are often targeted at businesses and often involve cybercriminals overloading servers or disrupting system operations.
Cyberbullying and blackmail are also criminally punishable in the UAE. The law strictly prohibits threats, extortion, the distribution of intimate photos, and online harassment. Such actions can result in imprisonment and a fine of up to 1 million dirhams.
New Law on Combating Cybercrime
Cryber criminal activities in Dubai are regulated by the Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 “On Combating Cybercrimes and Defamation” adopted on 2 January 2022. This regulatory act governs liability for actions in the digital space within the territory of the UAE.
The federal law provides strict penalties, including fines and prison terms, for violations of cybersecurity. It also regulates the use of digital technologies in financial operations, protecting both private users and companies.
An important feature is the fight against the spread of malicious software, cyberterrorism, and online manipulation. This law strengthens trust in Dubai’s digital economy, making it safer and more resilient to threats.
The main tasks of these regulations include:
- Protection of digital infrastructure: Counteracting hacker attacks, breaches, and unauthorised access to computers and the network, ensuring the security of governmental and private data.
- Combating online fraud: The law aims to tackle internet fraud, including scams involving cryptocurrencies, phishing, and fraudulent schemes related to digital assets.
- Prevention of malware spread: Protection against viruses, trojans, and ransomware that can disrupt the operation of computer systems or steal confidential information.
- Protection of private data: Ensuring the security of personal data of citizens and companies, preventing its leaks and unlawful use.
- Countering cyberterrorism: Combating the use of the internet for terrorist activities and the promotion of violence.
- Establishment of strict sanctions: Definition of punishments, including fines and prison terms, for individuals violating the law, to effectively combat cybercrime.
Responsibility and punishments for cybercrimes in Dubai
Cybercrimes and internet fraud are considered serious criminal offences in Dubai, regulated by Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes.
Punishments depend on the nature of the crime and may include:
- High fines – from 100,000 to 1,000,000 dirhams and above (depending on the damage caused to an individual or legal entity);
- Imprisonment – from 6 months to 10 years;
- Confiscation of equipment used to commit the crime;
- In particularly severe cases — deportation of a foreign citizen after serving the sentence.
The court may impose the maximum penalty when cybercrimes are committed by criminal organizations hoping to cause financial or reputational damage. That may include a lengthy prison sentence and confiscation of property.
Examples of crimes punishable by imprisonment:
- Theft of personal data and account hacking;
- Phishing and forgery of electronic correspondence;
- Online extortion and cyber blackmail;
- The distribution of malware or conducting DDoS attacks.
How can we assist with cybercrime charges?
Cybercrime cases in Dubai are serious legal challenges that require professional help from cybersecurity experts and international lawyers. Our cybercrime attorneys rely on their deep knowledge of UAE legislation and practical experience in defending clients accused of digital violations.
- We represent the client at all stages of the case — in the police, prosecution, and court.
- We are developing a personalised defence strategy aimed at mitigating the consequences or completely dismissing the charges.
- We are conducting negotiations with security agencies and the prosecutor’s office before the initiation of a criminal case, striving to resolve the situation at an early stage.
- We analyse the collected evidence and the legal position of the investigation, identifying violations or shortcomings in the case materials.
Our lawyers work on all types of cybercrimes in the UAE, including:
- hacking and unauthorised access to data;
- theft of personal information;
- internet fraud and phishing;
- distribution of malicious software;
- cyberstalking and threats on social networks;
- money laundering through cryptocurrency.
If you have become the subject of an investigation or accusation, contacting a specialised lawyer in Dubai is your first and most important step in protecting your rights.
Contact lawyers specialising in internet fraud in Dubai
Cybercrime cases are based on complex digital evidence, and the punishments can be severe in Dubai. Our cybercrime lawyers in Dubai are ready to apply all their experience and knowledge to protect your interests and minimize possible negative consequences.
We are ready to ensure your protection and defend your rights to a fair trial under any circumstances. Our lawyers strive for a just resolution, while safeguarding the client’s privacy and interests at every stage of the case. Write to us right now to receive expert advice on further actions regarding alleged crimes committed online.
FAQ
Where can I report cyber crime in Dubai?
To report cybercrime in Dubai, the primary and most direct method is through the Dubai Police’s “eCrime” platform. This is an online portal for the public to register complaints related to internet crimes, including hacking, online fraud, phishing, extortion, and defamation. You can access it via the Dubai Police website or their smart app. For urgent matters, call 999. For non-emergencies, contact 901. The UAE Computer Emergency Response Team (aeCERT) is another relevant body.
What is a cyber lawyer?
A cyber lawyer specializes in cyber law and legal issues surrounding the internet, data, and technology. Their expertise covers data privacy and compliance with regulations like the UAE’s data protection laws. They handle cases involving data breaches, managing regulatory reporting and litigation. Cyber lawyers also prosecute or defend criminal cases involving cybercrime, such as hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. They also deal with digital intellectual property and online defamation.
What is cyber crime in the UAE?
In the UAE, cybercrime is defined and governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes. This law imposes strict penalties, including imprisonment and heavy fines, for offenses such as hacking, unauthorized access to data, and online fraud. It also uniquely criminalizes spreading “rumors” or fake news that could harm public order. Other key offenses include online defamation, electronic extortion, identity theft, creating or visiting gambling websites, and violating personal privacy.
What are the three types of cybercrime?
Cybercrime is broadly categorized into three primary types: 1. Crimes targeting computers/networks: These are attacks where the computer or network itself is the target. This includes hacking, distributing malware (viruses, ransomware), and Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks. 2. Crimes using computers to commit offenses: The computer is used as a tool. This includes financial fraud, phishing (stealing credentials), and identity theft. 3. Crimes involving online content: This relates to the illegal content itself. It includes online defamation (libel), cyberbullying, spreading fake news, and the distribution of illegal materials.
What is RA 10175 cybercrime law?
Republic Act (RA) 10175, known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, is a key piece of legislation in the Philippines. It is not a UAE law. This law was enacted to address cybercrime in the Philippines. It defines and penalizes offenses, including hacking, identity theft, cybersex, and, most controversially, online libel. The libel provision was highly contentious. RA 10175 also establishes procedures for cybercrime investigation in that country.
