There's a new law in United Arab Emirates according to which even swearing on WhatsApp could land you in jail.
The Middle Eastern country has introduced severe penalties for people caught swearing online, including jail sentences and fines of up to 43,000 pounds, and a man who was recently found guilty of the "crime" is waiting to hear if he would be first to pay the price, reported the Mirror.
Though he was originally had to pay 500 pound fine, Abu Dhabi based Federal Supreme Court has overturned that sentence for being too merciful.
The law also states that if foreigners were found guilty of similar offences, they would face being deported, and the police have warned that people caught sending a middle finger emoji symbol could face prosecution.
The law means that millions of foreign tourists, who visit the UAE each year, would now have to take extra precaution.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app