In a surprising move, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have both passed laws that criminalise the sending of heart emojis via WhatsApp and other social networking sites, considering it an act of incitement to debauchery and harassment, respectively.
According to Kuwaiti lawyer Haya Al Shalahi, individuals found guilty of sending heart emojis in Kuwait may face severe consequences. A conviction of this offence could lead to up to two years of imprisonment, along with a fine not exceeding 2,000 Kuwaiti dinars.
Likewise, in Saudi Arabia, the consequences are equally harsh. Sending ‘red heart’ emojis on WhatsApp may result in a jail term ranging from two to five years, accompanied by a fine of 100,000 Saudi Riyals, as per Saudi law.
Saudi cybercrime expert Al Moataz Kutbi highlighted that certain images and expressions used in online conversations, like red hearts, could be deemed harassment within the country’s jurisdiction. The act might lead to a lawsuit being filed by the aggrieved party, turning it into a serious offence.
Moreover, for repeat offenders in Saudi Arabia, the financial penalty could escalate to a staggering 300,000 Saudi Riyals, coupled with a maximum imprisonment of five years.
The rationale behind these strict measures is to combat online harassment and protect individuals from potentially harmful or inappropriate content shared through emojis. Authorities in both countries view such seemingly innocuous expressions as having the potential to incite indecent behaviour or cause emotional distress to recipients.
As social media and messaging platforms continue to play a significant role in modern communication, governments are increasingly taking measures to regulate online interactions and enforce cyber laws. Individuals in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia are now urged to exercise caution in their online communication to avoid potential legal consequences.
It remains to be seen how these laws will be enforced and how they will impact digital communication practises in both nations. In the meantime, citizens are encouraged to be aware of these recent legal developments and adapt their online behaviour accordingly.
