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UAE tightens internet regulations

13 November 2012

DUBAI, 13 NOV: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is imposing sweeping new Internet regulations that include giving authorities broad leeway to crack down on Web activists who are criticising the Gulf nation's rulers or calling for demonstrations.

The measures reflect tightening cyber-controls across the Gulf region as the rulers worry about challenges inspired by the Arab Spring. They have faced outcry from rights groups after jailing dozens of Web activists.The new codes posted today on the official news agency WAM cover issues such as online fraud and prostitution rings. But a major segment deals with outlawing posts that “deride” the UAE ruling system or seek to mobilise protests.ap