Five charged with cyber crime over fake news

dubai — Five persons of Indian origin were charged with cyber crime and abusive use of the Internet / social media platform by the Dubai Police as per the instructions from the Dubai Public Prosecution.

Investigations by the Dubai Police have confirmed that one of the persons involved manipulated and circulated false social media posts giving the impression that the gold jewellery sold by the brand is impure and fake. The said person has during the investigation process admitted that he had logged in and slandered the company. The investigation against the others are under process.

The maligning posts were made viral across social media platforms, especially on WhatsApp groups. The posts further claimed that the UAE showrooms of Kalyan Jewellers were sealed and the owners arrested.

The legal action followed a complaint filed by Kalyan Jewellers LLC before the Dubai Public Prosecution against spreading fake videos and false news on social media. Dubai Police are working closely with the cybercrime department and actively pursuing investigations to identify other possible perpetrators who had uploaded similar false videos/posts.

Kalyan Jewellers had immediately refuted the false claims by posting a statement on their official social media handles.

“A brand’s reputation is built over the years by the contribution and hard work of many people. Such instances of fake news propagated by a few irresponsible individuals is an attempt to tarnish the image and reputation of brands.

“These acts have deep impact on the emotions of all those associated with the brand and the company. I thank the UAE’s legal system and the Dubai Police for taking strict measures in preventing cybercrimes and establishing the truth in such situations,” T.S. Kalyanaraman, chairman and managing director of Kalyan Jewellers, said. reporters@khaleejtimes.com

Such instances of fake propagated by a few irresponsible individuals is an attempt to tarnish the image and reputation of brands.” TS Kalyanaraman, chairman, Kalyan Jewellers