Cracking Down on Cybercrime: UAE Blocks Over 1,000 Illegal Websites

The UAE Ministry of Economy (MoE) announced on Thursday that it has taken action against more than 1,000 illegal websites this year for violating cyber laws, particularly those pertaining to intellectual property rights.

Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, assistant undersecretary for Intellectual Property Rights Sector at the Ministry of Economy, revealed that the majority of these websites were shut down during Ramadan, a period of heightened demand for multimedia content. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding intellectual property in the digital realm, especially in the context of online entertainment broadcasting.

The ‘InstaBlock’ Initiative

Al Muaini highlighted the success of the ‘InstaBlock’ initiative, implemented during Ramadan, which led to the blocking of 1,117 websites found to be illegally streaming copyrighted content. This marked a significant increase compared to the previous year, indicating the effectiveness of the UAE’s proactive approach to combating online piracy.

The MoE’s efforts include the utilization of specialized tools like ‘LiveBan’, specifically tailored to address complaints related to copyright infringement in live online broadcasting. These measures demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to creating a secure digital environment that fosters creativity and innovation while deterring illicit activities.

A Year-Round Initiative

Al Muaini underscored the ministry’s dedication to making the ‘InstaBlock’ initiative a year-round program, signaling a sustained effort to curb cybercrime and protect intellectual property rights. By implementing comprehensive enforcement strategies, the UAE aims to reinforce its position as a global leader in the knowledge economy.

The crackdown on illegal websites not only upholds the rights of content creators but also contributes to a more vibrant and conducive digital ecosystem. By promoting respect for intellectual property rights, the UAE fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, essential for its continued growth and competitiveness on the global stage.

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