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Accused of online defamation in a WhatsApp group — what should I do?

Asked by Anonymous·May 9, 2026·1 answers
I forwarded a screenshot of a poor restaurant experience into a 30-person family WhatsApp group. The restaurant owner found out and filed a defamation case under the Cybercrime Law. What are my realistic exposure and options?

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Best answer
Ahmed Al-MansooriVerified Lawyer

criminal-law, family-law

4.5 · May 2, 2026
Article 43 of Federal Decree-Law 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrime criminalises online insult/defamation with up to AED 250,000 fine and possible deportation for expats. Defenses: truth (you must prove the statement was factually accurate) and that the statement was not directed at a specific identifiable person. Engage counsel immediately and explore an apology + settlement track — most cases withdraw on owner's request once a settlement is signed before trial.
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