Cybercrimes: People's reputation is no joke... Using others' names and images to create fake accounts is a crime

Kuwait officials: The Ministry of Interior has issued an awareness message, particularly targeting students and young people, warning against creating fake accounts under other people’s names or using their images without their knowledge, and highlighting the potential damage to the reputations of those involved and the legal consequences.

The Cybercrime Department, part of the Criminal Security Sector, stated in an awareness post shared on its X (formerly Twitter) account under the title “People’s reputations are not a joke” that using others’ images in fake accounts and impersonating them is not a fleeting behavior or a matter for joking. It emphasized that impersonation is an unethical act and a crime punishable by law.

The message was addressed in a tone close to students, under the heading “Dear Student,” clearly indicating the importance of educating youth about the risks of practices that may begin as mischief or joking on social media but can lead to legal repercussions if they involve criminal acts. The Cybercrime Department concluded its message by stressing the need to avoid such practices, and published the awareness campaign in both Arabic and English to reach a broader audience.

It is worth noting that Law No. 63 of 2015 on Combating Information Technology Crimes addresses offenses committed using computer networks and information technology means, with penalties varying according to the act and its consequences. Among the scenarios covered by the law is the use of a false name or false impersonation in the context of electronic fraud to obtain money or benefits. The law also emphasizes penalties related to threats or extortion that infringe upon people’s dignity, honor, or reputation.

Regarding minors, legal treatment differs from that of adults. The Juvenile Law, as amended, defines a juvenile as any person who has not reached the age of 18. For those who have completed the age of 15 but have not reached 18, if they commit a crime punishable by temporary imprisonment, the imprisonment term shall not exceed half the maximum penalty prescribed for the crime, and juveniles are not subject to fines.

On another note, a traffic source urged drivers to exercise caution and care while driving during foggy conditions and reduced visibility, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to the General Directorate of Traffic’s instructions to ensure the safety of road users. The source stated that driving in fog requires reducing speed in accordance with visibility range without obstructing traffic flow, using low-beam headlights, maintaining a safe distance between vehicles to avoid accidents caused by sudden stops, refraining from sudden overtaking, and using turn signals when changing lanes.

The source stressed the importance of ensuring windshield cleanliness and wiper efficiency before setting off, holding the steering wheel firmly, especially in crosswinds, and avoiding the use of mobile phones or being distracted from the road while driving.

The source clarified that if visibility is completely lost, drivers must stop in a safe location away from the road and not continue driving, which could endanger themselves and others. It emphasized that attentiveness and compliance with traffic regulations constitute the first line of defense in reducing accidents during weather fluctuations.