Article 52 of the Countering Rumours and Cybercrimes Law covers conduct including publication and republication of specified false or misleading news and reports. Receipt is different from redistribution. Whether an offence is established depends on the precise content, circumstances and evidence; “I only forwarded it” is not a complete legal assessment.
Find the original source, date and full context before reposting. An old photograph, incomplete translation or detached headline can change a story’s meaning. Check government announcements with the authority concerned; popularity and the sender’s name are not evidence of accuracy.
The law provides different consequences, including imprisonment and fines, for different offences. A single fine range for all forwarded messages is inaccurate. Deportation also requires assessment of the offence, decision, applicable rules and personal circumstances; a social-media poster cannot determine the outcome of a case.
Privacy and reputation matter separately from factual accuracy. Do not publish someone’s name, photograph or an allegation merely to warn others without assessing the implications. Where crime or fraud is suspected, use official reporting channels and retain the message, source address and receipt date for assessment.
A practical next step
Pause redistribution when a story is uncertain and verify the original with a reliable source. If you receive a notice or complaint, preserve the exact content and sending history for legal review.
Official sources
Adapted from a photo post shared on Dr. Bahrami’s Instagram and checked against official sources. This page provides the updated guidance.
Original Instagram post